The process of inquiring into the Catholic Faith is set to begin again here at Queens on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. The Vatican approved a name change to the process of exploring the Catholic faith this past spring, and published its approval on Easter Sunday, March 31, 2024. Formerly known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), it will now be known as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA.) The process itself involves a few changes, but basically remains the same.
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. We invite anyone interested to see what Catholics believe in an open and welcoming environment.
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. Commitments about becoming Catholic are not made until later in the process, if at all.
The OCIA is intended for:
- Those who have never been baptized into any Christian faith
- Christians from Protestant denominations seeking the fulness of the faith
- People who were baptized Catholic but never received any other sacraments (or faith formation growing up.)
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 (10:15-11:30 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.
Our first adult class will be held Wednesday, September 4, 2024 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.