If you're seeking to learn more about Catholic life and faith, we welcome you to the OCIA process here at Our Lady of Peace. Wherever you're at in your faith journey - whether you were baptized in another faith tradition, seeking baptism or other sacraments in the Catholic Church, or simply looking to explore what it means to be a part of the Catholic family - we hope to walk with you and answer any questions you may have.
The process for becoming Catholic or preparing to receive any of the sacraments as an adult is called OCIA (The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults).
Who is OCIA for?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is for anyone considering becoming Catholic or seeking full initiation into the Church, including:
- Non-Catholics who want to explore Catholicism and potentially join the Church.
- Those baptized in another Christian tradition who seek full communion with the Catholic Church.
- Baptized Catholics who have not yet received First Communion or Confirmation.
The OCIA process concludes with the reception of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil Mass or in the weeks after.
When and where are OCIA sessions?
More information about schedule will be available soon - but sessions are typically held after Sunday 10:00 AM Mass at OLP in the Parish Hall. Some sessions are held on Zoom.
What are OCIA gatherings like?
OCIA offers a welcoming environment where we’ll dive deeper into the teachings of Christ, the Sacraments, and what it means to be part of the Catholic family. Our sessions meet you wherever you’re at in your journey as we take a deep dive into the faith of the Catholic Church, and engage with relevant life issues, topics and questions.
Why Catholic?
The Catholic Church is rooted in a rich history of faith that goes back to the time of Christ—and even to the beginnings of God’s work in the Old Testament. At its heart, Catholicism is about drawing closer to God: seeking truth through Scripture and tradition, encountering His grace and the real presence of Christ in the sacraments, and living out our faith as the hands and feet of Jesus in the world. To be Catholic is to belong to a worldwide community centered on love, service, and prayer. Whether you’re searching for meaning, curious about the faith, or simply exploring, you’re invited to come and see what Catholicism is all about.
We welcome you to inquire about an introductory conversation about OCIA and becoming Catholic. We generally begin formal OCIA classes in early Fall. Firm commitment is not required until later in the process; feel free to come and see what it’s all about. Please reach out to Gloria Alves at catoff@olpnp.org with any questions, or call (908) 464-7600 to get started.