OCIA 2026
The Easter Vigil is the most blessed evening celebration in our church year. This beautiful liturgy, that celebrates the Resurrection of our Lord, is a very prayerful and joyous night for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) community.
This year we had ten adults preparing to receive at least one of the Sacraments of Initiation. At the Easter Vigil, nine were confirmed, three of them were baptized, and five of them received their First Eucharist.
Our new Catholics are; José Alba, Miguel Alba, Adam Long, Amber Long, Adam Meier, Erik Raya, Cynthia Rosas, Brady Welch, and Colton Welch. These elect, now fully Catholics, inspired the sponsors and team by their joy, and love for Christ and our church. There were several children who also were excited to receive some of their first Sacraments at this Mass.
OCIA provided our adults with a process that introduced them to Scripture, prayer, the Sacraments, and some of the teachings of the Catholic Church. During this time, we all grew to be a strong faith community.
The OCIA process would not be successful without our parish sponsors and team, who give unselfishly of their time in leading these candidates to the Sacraments and faith. Our priests and deacons are very supportive of our program, especially Fr. Mark, who is a strong spiritual and visual presence with us. They are the backbone of this OCIA process.
The prayers from the Sacred Heart parishioners during this faith journey of the OCIA candidates, strengthened their desire to enter our Catholic community. We thank you for your prayers.
As we complete our current OCIA program, we look forward to next year. We have adults already inquiring and welcome others to consider joining this faith journey. If you know someone considering Catholicism or in need of completing their Sacraments of Initiation, please have them call the parish office at (309) 762-2362.
We welcome those who have received the Initiation Sacraments at the Easter Vigil. Undoubtedly, these nine new Catholics will be a positive addition to our parish family as they join us on our journey of faith.