Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), formally RCIA

Session begins Sunday, September 8, 2024 at 10am in St. Clare Room

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a new name for what has been known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Why the name change? OCIA reflects the original Latin name (Ordo initiationis christianae adultorum) given to the process of welcoming unbaptized adults into the Catholic faith beginning in 1972. In 1974 additional texts were written for baptized adults of another Christian faith who wished to come into full communion with the Catholic Church. English translations were finalized in 1988 and we have been using them ever since. Technically speaking an “Order” is a collection of “Rites” so this new name better reflects this process and there are many “Rites” celebrated.

What has not changed is our desire to share the love of Christ we have received, with you. The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is open to all unbaptized adults and those who were baptized in another Christian faith and now wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.

We will host an informational meeting to explain how the OCIA program works and answer your questions. Please make plans to join us and bring friends and family members as well.

Please call or email Deacon Roy Brown with questions- ocia@stbernardblgs.org 406.259.4350.

I met a woman who had been away from the Church for over 30 years. She was amazed at what she had seen when attending Mass. Her initial surprise was then met with some anxiety as she was unsure what else may have changed while she was away. After a short welcome visit, she decided to join the class of OCIA so she could “relearn” those things that were taught when she was in Religious Education. I am happy to say that she is now fully back in the Church, and she continues to tell me how much she loves being back with her family in the Church. This is the way the Holy Spirit works in the lives of friends and family members who may no longer be practicing the faith. We have a place to come and experience again the love God has for us. So great is his love that He would humble himself and be born of Mary to share in our human life and ultimately to offer His life for our redemption. We welcome you or friend or family member to join us and look forward to saying “welcome home!”.