What is OCIA (formerly RCIA), and how long does it take?

OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is the ordinary process by which adults prepare to enter the Catholic Church. It was formerly called RCIA, the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.

What OCIA includes. Christian initiation is more than a class or membership program. It combines instruction in Catholic teaching, conversion of life, prayer, participation in the Church's worship, and support from the parish community. The Church follows the ancient catechumenate, a gradual process intended to form disciples of Christ, not merely prepare people to pass a test (CCC 1229-1233).

The usual stages. A person normally begins with evangelization and inquiry, when questions can be asked without making a commitment. An unbaptized person who chooses to continue may enter the catechumenate and become a catechumen. A later period called purification and enlightenment usually takes place during Lent. The catechumen then ordinarily receives Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. Afterward comes mystagogy, a period of deeper reflection on the sacraments and Catholic life (CCC 1230, 1233, 1247-1249).

For someone already baptized. A validly baptized Christian is called a candidate, not a catechumen, because Baptism cannot be repeated. The candidate receives suitable formation, makes a profession of Catholic faith, is received into full communion, and ordinarily receives Confirmation and the Eucharist. The candidate also goes to confession beforehand if conscious of serious sin. Formation should respect the person's existing Christian faith rather than treating that person as unbaptized (CCC 1271).

How long it takes. There is no universal rule that everyone must complete OCIA in a fixed number of months. Many parishes run a process from late summer or fall until Easter, followed by mystagogy. Some people need more or less time. The Church requires an adult seeking Baptism to have sufficient instruction, a genuine intention to receive the sacrament, and evidence of Christian conversion (Canon 865). Marriage situations, previous baptisms, or limited understanding may need attention before reception.

Contact a Catholic parish and ask to speak with the OCIA director or pastor. Attending an inquiry meeting does not obligate you to become Catholic. It simply gives you a place to ask questions and begin discerning Christ's call.