What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process through which interested adults are introduced to the Roman Catholic faith and our way of living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The RCIA is a process that involves the whole community, and encompasses a number of stages including liturgical rites to assist the potential convert toward the final rite at the Easter Vigil during which they will become full members of the Catholic Church.

The most important thing to keep in mind about the OCIA is this: it is not merely a new way to prepare adults for baptism; these are only the first steps.  The goal of the process is full communion which means “full, conscious, and active participation" in the Eucharist and in the whole life of the Catholic Faith Community.   OCIA helps adults to grow in their relationship with God, become more familiar with Catholic teachings and practices, get to know people in the parish, and become involved in service within the parish and the wider community.

Who is OCIA for?

1. Unbaptized persons.

2. Persons baptized in other Christian traditions who desire to become members of the Catholic Church.

3. We also welcome baptized Catholics who have not received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Communion -- the combination of Sacraments necessary for full initiation into the Church.

How does St. Cecilia Parish attract inquirers each year for those who want to become Catholic?

The short answer is you! Our parish has inquirers year after year, and it is thanks to your cooperation with the gifts of the Holy Spirit that we as a parish community open our hearts to welcome new members. The invitation to inquire about the Catholic faith happens in our families, in the workplace, in gatherings with friends and neighbors, and in our everyday contacts.

If I am interested in learning more about the Catholic faith and possibly becoming a Catholic, what should I do?

Inquirers should call the Parish Office (732-329-2893) and arrange for an interview with our OCIA ministers.  Perhaps you, or someone you know, could benefit from this process? OCIA is led by dedicated long-standing parishioners of St. Cecilia's. We stand ready to answer your questions and to facilitate your steps on your faith journey. 

Please be assured there will be no high-pressure sales pitch!. OCIA is like a house (a house of worship!) with an open door. We hold the door open, but the decision to enter is left up to you. We invite you to speak with us, with no strings attached, to see if OCIA is right for you. Our meetings are held once a week, and we will try to accommodate your particular schedule for a meeting time. 

You may be surprised at what you will learn, presented in an informal, relaxed, and friendly format. If you feel that something has been missing from your spiritual life, let the Holy Spirit guide you. And if your search leads you to OCIA, know that we are ready to assist you because we do this work for God, and God is the one waiting to accept you in your eager search for him. We are God’s instruments, and are ready to help.

If I am already Catholic, how does OCIA apply to me?

Most Catholics have had an individual in their lives who has made an impact on their Catholic faith. You could be one of those persons!

Individuals seeking full communion with God in the Catholic Church need an OCIA Sponsor or Godparent to assist them on their spiritual journey. These mentors will be witnesses to the faith assisting in the process along with furthering their own education and deepening their own relationship with Jesus Christ in his Church.

By mentoring a person in their spirituality you play a critical role in welcoming them into our parish community through the various liturgical celebrations, parish activities and faith sharing.

Please invite any persons you know who may be interested in learning more about our Catholic faith to contact us so that we may personally reach out to them and answer any questions that they may have.