O.C.I.A.

What does the process look like?

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The Order of Christian Initiation is based on the principle that conversion occurs gradually, in stages. Progress from one stage to the next is marked by a liturgical celebration within the parish community. Experiences and needs differ by age and religious background, so the length of time may vary for each person. Nevertheless, there are certain similarities among all the groups and the process they will experience, and these can be listed as follows:

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Precatechumenate

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The first stage is called the period of inquiry (or the precatechumenate). This is when the individual first expresses an interest in becoming a Christian or a Catholic and begins to explore, with the help of the parish community, what his or her relationship with Christ might be and how that might be enriched and deepened by joining this Christian community. There is no liturgical rite to mark the beginning of this stage. This period of inquiry may last several months or several years and ends either when the inquirer decides against continuing in this direction or when the inquirer feels ready to move on, and the community is prepared to welcome him or her.

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Catechumenate

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The second stage, called the catechumenate, should last no less than one full year for the unbaptized listed above, who are now called catechumens. For the baptized but uncatechized, the period should be a similar length. For the candidates for full communion, this stage could well be much shorter. The Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens and the Rite of Welcoming mark the beginning of this stage. Catechesis for this period is rooted in the Lectionary and the Word as it is proclaimed in the midst of the community. This is also a time for the catechumen or candidate to learn how to live as a Catholic Christian. This period ends when the catechumens and candidates express their desire to receive the sacraments of initiation and the community acknowledges their readiness.

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Purification and Enlightenment

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The third stage is the period of purification and enlightenment, and coincides with Lent. During this time, the elect (formerly the catechumens) and the candidates enter into a period of intense preparation and prayer, which includes the three public celebrations of the scrutinies and is marked by the presentations of the Creed and the Lord's Prayer. The Rite of Election and the Call to Continuing Conversion are celebrated at the beginning of this stage. This period ends with the celebration of baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil. (Note: only the elect are baptized. All the groups are confirmed and welcomed to the table.)

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Mystagogy

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Mystagogy, a Greek word meaning “to lead through the mysteries,” is the period following the reception of the sacraments of initiation. It typically extends from Easter Sunday through Pentecost, although growth and formation in the Catholic faith continue throughout one’s life.

During this time, the newly initiated reflect more deeply on the sacraments they have received, connect Scripture and Church teaching to their daily lives, and discover ways to participate more fully in the worship, ministries, and outreach of the parish community. The focus shifts from learning about the Catholic faith to living it as an active member of the Church.