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Becoming Catholic as an Adult
The process of becoming a Catholic as an adult is often referred to as the OCIA (previously RCIA). The initiation process, however, is larger than an acronym. It was instituted for all parishes in the United States in 1988 and in 2024, a new translation was approved.
Who is the process for?
- The unbaptized. The primary focus of Adult Initiation is on those who are not already baptized Christians. Through the stages below, the individual journeys to the waters of baptism.
- The baptized, but not in Communion with Rome. Often adults who were baptized in a denomination apart from Catholics decide they want to be Catholic. Formally, that is called coming into Communion on Rome. Often (but not always) they learn side-by-side the unbaptized.
- The baptized, but uncatechized. Those who have been baptized as Catholics, but have not received Communion or Confirmation will often join other adults who are not baptized as they prepare for their Sacraments as well.
Note: according to Canon Law, children of catechetical age are considered to be adults for the purposes of Christian Initiation once they have reached the age of reason (defined at 7 years old).
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is not for adult candidates who have already received their First Eucharist in the Catholic Church. They should have their own formation process and be confirmed at a celebration other than the Easter Vigil.
What does the process look like?
Adult Initiation is based on the principle that the process of conversion proceeds gradually, in stages. Progress from one stage to the next is marked by a liturgical celebration in the midst of the parish community. Because the experience and needs of those in each category described above differ, the process will look different for each person. Nevertheless, there are certain similarities among all the groups and the process they will undergo, and these can be listed as follows: (click each stage to view an explanation)
Pre-Catechumenate
The first stage is called the period of inquiry (or the pre-catechumenate). This is when the individual first expresses and interest in becoming Catholic, and begins to explore, with the help of the parish community, what his or her relationship with Christ might be and how that might be enriched and deepened by joining this Christian community. There is no liturgical rite to mark the beginning of this stage, and this period of inquiry may last several months or several years. It ends when either the inquirer decides against continuing in this direction or when the inquirer feels ready to move on and the community is prepared to welcome him or her.
Catechumenate
The second stage is called the catechumenate and, begins with the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of Catechumens. From this point those preparing from Baptism are called catechumens. Catechesis for this period is rooted in the Lectionary and the Word as it is proclaimed in the midst of the community. This is also a time for the catechumen to learn how to live as a Catholic Christian. This period ends when the catechumen expresses their desire to receive the Sacraments of Initiation and the community acknowledges their readiness.
Paralleling this stage, those seeking Full Initiation or to complete their Sacraments of Initiation celebrate the Rite of Welcoming and begin the formal process of learning what it means to be Catholic. Individuals preparing for their Sacraments are called candidates.
Purification & Enlightenment
The third stage is the period of purification and enlightenment which coincides with Lent. This stage begins with the celebration of the Rite of Election, where candidates become the Elect. During this time the Elect enter into a period of intense preparation and prayer which includes the three public celebrations of the scrutinies and is marked by the presentations of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer. This period ends with the celebration of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.
The candidates for Full Initiation also enter a period of preparation, and it is marked by the celebration of the Call to Continuing Conversion which is celebrated at the same celebration as the Rite of Election. During the months leading to their Sacraments, they will also undergo a period of examination and celebrate Rites that call them to conversion and a life in Christ.
Mystagogy
The fourth stage is the period of post baptismal catechesis or mystagogy. At this time, the newly initiated explore their experience of being fully initiated through participation with all the faithful at Sunday Eucharist and through appropriate catechesis. The period formally lasts through the Easter season and may be marked by a parish celebration on or near Pentecost. On a more informal level, mystagogy is a lifelong process, one that all Christians are engaged in, as we all work to deepen our sense of what it means to live the Christian life.