Carla the Catechist

The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is not a program but a sacramental process.  It reflects the sacramental attitude of conversion toward emulating one’s whole person (body, mind, and soul) toward Christ through the Holy Spirit.

The OCIA is divided into various periods:

Pre-Catechumenate

• Period of Evangelization and the Pre-catechumenate (Inquiry)
• Rite of Acceptance (or Welcoming) into the Order of Catechumens

Catechumenate

• Period of Catechumenate (bulk of the preparatory time)
• Rite of Sending and Election or Enrollment of Names

Purification and Enlightenment

• Period of Purification and Enlightenment (After Rite of Election to Vigil Mass)
• This includes many scrutinies during the weeks leading up to the Easter Vigil Mass

The Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation

• The norm of celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation is at the Easter Vigil Mass, however they can be celebrated during another Mass depending on individual situations

Mystagogy

• Period of Mystagogy or Postbaptismal Catechesis (Through the Easter Season to Pentecost) a time of reflection and accompaniment into life in the Church celebrating the Mysteries of the Faith in the Sacraments and Community of Faith

The First Year

• The Elect become known as Neophytes

These periods are concerned with immersing each person in the Gospel, liturgical celebrations, the paschal mystery (life, death, and resurrection of Christ), active participation in the Church, and service of others.