Dear Parishioners,

Is it RCIA or OCIA?
In the near future this change will be in effect.
Just keeping you updated!

All of us know that things change, evolve, and develop. Most recently what was once called
RCIA (RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS)
is now being called,
OCIA (ORDER OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS)!

OCIA reflects the original Latin name (Ordo initiationis christianae adultorum)

The name change is intended to better reflect that an “order” is a collection of all the “rites” involved in the process. The revision will also introduce three new categories:
catechumens (unbaptized adults),
baptized non-Catholic Christians, and
baptized Catholics in need of confirmation.

To become a Catholic, individuals go through several rites with the final being at the Easter Vigil when they are welcomed into the Catholic Church. The Easter Vigil rites have also been adjusted. They will now focus more on the validity of baptisms received in other Christian denominations.

What has not changed is our desire to share the love of Christ we have received, with catechumens, unbaptized infants, baptized non-Catholic Christians, and baptized Catholics in need of Confirmation. 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.

You are always welcome to contact Amy Incorvati-Aloisi, Director of Faith Formation, with your questions or for more information. She can be reached at aaloisi@ihmcfo.org or 330-929-8361 x19.

Many blessings,
Father Jim