Aaron was raised in a Jewish family, but many of his close friends and co-workers are Catholic. He's been thinking about joining the Church for some time now.
Michelle was baptized in the Presbyterian church, but her husband and children are Catholic. She attends Mass with them most Sundays, and would like to be able to share fully in her family's spiritual practice.
Gayle has never been baptized; in fact she has never been affiliated with any religious tradition. But she’s always been intrigued by religion, and feels particularly drawn to Catholicism. She would like to know more.
Do any of these people remind you of yourself, or of someone you know? If so, you’re welcome to investigate what is called the “OCIA” —shorthand for the “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.” OCIA is the process established by the Church after Vatican Council II to prepare non-Catholic adults for full membership in the life of the Church. It is a rich experience of prayer, education, conversation, and ritual, usually beginning in the fall, that guides an individual toward the goal of full initiation in the Roman Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil (the night before Easter Sunday).
The process usually takes the better part of a year, but may be shortened or extended according to the needs of each individual. Candidates meet regularly with OCIA team members from our own parish—to grow in their relationship with the Lord, to delve into the fundamentals of our faith, and to share in our rich heritage of worship and spirituality.
Questions are always welcome! And there’s no obligation to move forward with OCIA simply because you're inquiring. Feel free to contact Jeanmarie Smith through the rectory (631) 589-0042 x 117 for further details.
St. Lawrence also has an OCIA process adapted for teenagers and children of school age. They receive the Sacraments of Initiation (that is, Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil, along with the adult candidates. For more information, please contact the Office of Faith Formation, (631) 589-0360.
