Are you interested in exploring what Catholicism is all about? The process of inquiring into the Catholic Faith is set to begin again here at Queens on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Formerly known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), this process is now called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA.) Jesus invited His apostles to “come and see” who He was. That is exactly what the OCIA is all about– an invitation to “come and see” who Jesus is and what the Church He founded has to offer. Beginning this process does not in any way obligate someone to become Catholic; rather, it is a forum where questions can be asked and beliefs explored in a safe, no-strings-attached environment. In other words, a person does not have to have decided to become Catholic to start the process. Commitments about becoming Catholic are not made until later, if at all.
The OCIA is intended for:
- Those who have no faith background or have never been baptized into any Christian faith
- Christians from Protestant denominations seeking the fulness of the faith in the Catholic Church
- People who were baptized Catholic but never received any other faith formation or Sacraments of Initiation such as First Communion or Confirmation
Wondering about the time commitment involved? Sessions for adults will be held on Wednesday evenings in the basement of the parish offices from 6:30-8:15. If needed, classes for children ages 7-12 meet during Sunday Faith Formation time (Sunday mornings); teen classes will be scheduled if we become aware of the need. As the OCIA process continues throughout the year, there will also be ceremonies or rites celebrated during Sunday masses. You can find out more about this at the first class, which is also an information session.
The Order of Christian Initation of Adults is more than just “taking classes” to inquire into the Catholic faith. It is really a parish-wide initiative, a chance for us to share with others the truths of the Catholic faith, and to offer the fellowship of our parish family. Parishioners can participate in the missionary vision of the Church by seeking out, inviting and even accompanying those who might want to explore Catholicism to the OCIA.
Our first adult class will be held Wednesday, August 27, 2025 in Seton Hall (basement of the parish offices). For more information, please contact Betsy Koval at bkoval@queenschurch.com, or call the parish office at 783-2748.