I’m not baptized
For adults seeking Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist, OCIA normally begins with inquiry and develops according to readiness rather than simply following a checklist.
OCIA
Explore the Catholic faith and Christian initiation
OCIA accompanies adults considering the Catholic faith, baptized Christians seeking full communion, and people who need to complete Christian initiation. The path is adapted to each person’s history and readiness.
Start here
Which best describes your situation?
These categories are only a starting point. The parish may recommend a different path after learning your sacramental history.
I’m baptized in another Christian tradition
If you are already validly baptized and are considering full communion with the Catholic Church, your preparation is adapted to your Christian background and formation.
I’m Catholic but missing Confirmation or Eucharist
A baptized Catholic who has not completed initiation may follow an adapted formation path. Contact us so we can determine whether OCIA or another process is the best fit.
My child or teen is not baptized
Children and teens of catechetical age may need an age-appropriate Christian initiation process rather than the ordinary sacrament-prep track.
How the process works
A journey of conversion, not just a class
1
Inquiry
A low-pressure time to ask questions, learn what Catholics believe, and discern whether you want to continue.
2
Formation & accompaniment
Ongoing formation in the Gospel, Catholic teaching, prayer, worship, and Christian life, with a sponsor or parish community accompanying you.
3
Discernment & preparation
As readiness becomes clearer, the Church helps determine the appropriate rites and preparation leading toward initiation or reception into full communion.
4
Celebration of the sacraments
Depending on your baptismal status and circumstances, this may involve Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, reception into full communion, or completion of initiation.
5
Mystagogy & continuing discipleship
Formation continues after the sacraments as you deepen participation in the Eucharist, parish life, prayer, and mission.
What to have available
- A basic description of your Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist history
- The Christian tradition or parish where you were baptized, if applicable
- Questions you want to discuss about the faith or process
Do not send sacramental certificates or private documents through the contact form.
You do not have to be certain before asking
Inquiry exists precisely so you can explore questions without making a commitment.
Start a conversationAction items
Forms & registration
PDF·Forms & Policies
2026–27 Family Calendar
A single-page overview of regular gatherings, social nights, retreats, and major ministry dates.
Upcoming OCIA dates
OCIA gatherings, rites, and other parish-published events.
No OCIA dates are published yet. Contact us for the current schedule.
OCIA resources
Material for exploring the faith, preparing, and accompanying the process.
There are not yet any published OCIA resources in this collection.
Looking for sacrament preparation for a child who is already baptized?
First Reconciliation, First Eucharist, and Confirmation have their own preparation pathways on the site.
