OCIA, the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, is the way an adult becomes Catholic. Through a period of formation, prayer and rites celebrated with the parish community, adults who have never been baptized prepare to receive Baptism, Confirmation and the Eucharist, usually at the Easter Vigil. Adults already baptized in another Christian church prepare to be received into full communion. In the United States the process was long called RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults); the new English translation of the ritual uses the name OCIA.
This guide explains who OCIA is for, its stages and rites, how long it takes, and how to begin. In 2027 the Easter Vigil is on Saturday, March 27.
Who is OCIA for?
- Catechumens: adults (and children of catechetical age) who have never been baptized. They receive all three sacraments of initiation at once.
- Candidates: adults validly baptized in another Christian church (for example Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, Baptist, Orthodox) who wish to become Catholic. They are not re-baptized; they make a profession of faith and receive Confirmation and the Eucharist.
- Baptized Catholics who never completed their initiation (never confirmed or never received First Communion) are usually prepared in a related but separate way.
The Church welcomes everyone who is seeking. “Since the beginning of the Church, adult Baptism is the common practice where the proclamation of the Gospel is still new” (Catechism 1247).
The stages of OCIA
| Period or rite | What happens | When (typical) |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Inquiry (Precatechumenate) | You ask questions, hear the Gospel, meet Catholics, and discern | Any time of year |
| Rite of Acceptance (or Welcome) | You publicly declare your intention before the parish; you are signed with the cross | Usually autumn |
| 2. Catechumenate | Instruction in the faith, Scripture, prayer and Catholic life; you attend the Liturgy of the Word at Mass | Several months to a year or more |
| Rite of Election (or Call to Continuing Conversion) | The bishop “elects” catechumens for the Easter sacraments; names are written in the Book of the Elect | First Sunday of Lent (February 14, 2027) |
| 3. Purification and Enlightenment | An intense Lenten retreat: the Scrutinies on the Third, Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent, and the presentation of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer | Lent (February 10 to March 25, 2027) |
| Sacraments of Initiation | Baptism, Confirmation and First Communion (or reception into full communion) | Easter Vigil, March 27, 2027 |
| 4. Mystagogy | Deepening in the mysteries received and finding your place in the parish | Easter season (to Pentecost, May 16, 2027) |
The Catechism describes the catechumenate as “bringing their conversion and faith to maturity, in response to the divine initiative and in union with an ecclesial community” (Catechism 1248).
What happens at the Easter Vigil
At the Easter Vigil, after the Service of Light and the readings, the elect are called forward. The Litany of the Saints is sung, the baptismal water is blessed, and the elect are baptized, then confirmed with sacred chrism, and receive Holy Communion for the first time. Candidates make a profession of faith, are confirmed and receive Communion. It is the most joyful night of the parish year.
Scripture shows the same pattern in the early Church:
And as they went on their way, they came to a certain water; and the eunuch said: See, here is water: what doth hinder me from being baptized?
And Philip said: If thou believest with all thy heart, thou mayest. And he answering, said: I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
And he commanded the chariot to stand still; and they went down into the water, both Philip and the eunuch: and he baptized him.
How long does OCIA take?
There is no fixed length. Many parishes follow a school-year rhythm (from September to Easter), but the Church asks that the catechumenate last long enough for real conversion, often at least a year for the unbaptized. Candidates who already know and live the Christian faith may be ready sooner. The schedule is set by the pastor according to each person’s journey.
How much does OCIA cost?
OCIA is free. Some parishes ask for a small contribution for books or a retreat, but no one is turned away for money.
Special situations
- Previous marriages. If you or your spouse were previously married, the Church will need to look at those marriages before you can receive the sacraments; this may involve a declaration of nullity. Tell the OCIA coordinator early.
- Children. Children of catechetical age (about seven and older) follow an adapted process, often with their parents.
- Sponsors and godparents. Each catechumen has a godparent and each candidate a sponsor: a practicing, confirmed Catholic who walks with you.
- Confirmation name. You may choose the name of a saint as your confirmation name. See our patron saints list.
How to start
- Contact your local Catholic parish and ask for the OCIA (or RCIA) coordinator.
- Go to Sunday Mass regularly; you are welcome, even before you can receive Communion.
- Begin to pray: learn the basic Catholic prayers and read a Gospel.
- Ask your questions. No question is too simple or too difficult.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between RCIA and OCIA?
They are the same process. RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) was the name of the English ritual from 1988; the new translation is called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), and parishes have adopted the new name.
Do I have to be re-baptized if I was baptized in another church?
No. Baptism with water in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit is valid in most Christian churches, and it is never repeated. You will make a profession of faith and be received into full communion.
Can I receive Communion during OCIA?
Not yet. Catechumens and candidates receive their first Communion at the Easter Vigil (or at their reception). Until then you may come forward for a blessing, or make a spiritual communion.
Do catechumens who die before baptism go to heaven?
Yes. The Church teaches that for catechumens who die before baptism, their explicit desire for it, together with repentance and charity, assures them of salvation (Catechism 1259); they are already “of the household of Christ” (Catechism 1249).
More guides
- The seven sacraments
- The Easter Vigil
- Catholic prayers: the basic prayers every Catholic should know
- The order of the Mass
- How to go to confession
Texts and sources
- Scripture: Acts 8:36–38, Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner), public domain.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1247–1249.
- Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (1972; English edition 1988) and the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (new English translation); National Statutes for the Catechumenate (USCCB).