The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (formally the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults), meets weekly to inform non-Catholic adults who are interested in learning more about the Catholic faith. Baptized Christians as well as non-Christians are welcome to attend and inquire about becoming Catholic. Those baptized adult Catholics who have not yet received the Sacraments of Confirmation and/or Eucharist may also attend this program, preparing them to receive those sacraments.

Those interested in OCIA, should contact our Pastoral Associate, Stefanie Iwan, and she can answer initial questions, point you in a general direction and/or let you know when sessions are running. Contact Stefanie Iwan at 616-241-4477 Ext. 1105 or email at pa@ihmparishgr.org

People interested in becoming Catholic may have many questions about the Faith. These questions vary from simply clarifying the Church’s teaching on a particular topic, to clearing up larger misconceptions about the Church, and/or going through a variety of topics from which questions may arise. This stage in a person’s interest in the Church is formally called Inquiry, or the Pre-Catechumenate.

Inquiry

Inquiry is sort of like getting to know someone to see if you are interested in dating them. Basic subject matter is covered in Inquiry meetings (Trinity, Incarnation, Paschal Mystery, the Church) as well as much time discussing questions from those people inquiring.

In Inquiry, there is no formal commitment to the Church because the person is simply inquiring more about the Catholic Church.

Period of The Catechumenate

Once a person is beyond any major questions or concerns they may have had with the Church, they enter into the stage of the Catechumenate, meaning they are now recognized by the Church as receiving formal instruction in the teachings of the Catholic Church. There is less time for basic Questions and Answers and more time on the presentation of the truths of the Catholic faith. There may be time to discuss the topics with a Sponsor during the meeting as well. A sponsor is an appointed person from the parish that walks with you through the entire preparation period of coming into full communion with Catholic Church.

Catechumen or Candidate?

Those persons who are already Baptized in a Christian Faith in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; with water are referred to as Candidates once entering the period of the Catechumenate. Those persons unbaptized are referred to as Catechumens once entering the period of the Catechumante.

Period of Purification & Enlightenment

This period usually during Lent is a time to not focus so much on content, but to reflect upon entering into full communion with the Catholic Church. purification and Enlightenment is much like being engaged to a person. By this time you are nearly 100% sure you want to enter into a Covenant relationship with the other party; and instead of focusing so much on learning about the other person, you spend more time in prayerful preparation for the day you enter into the covenant.

During this period, more time is spent with the Word of God in prayer, focusing on the Creed and other Liturgical Rites and Prayers, as well as personal prayer and with the group.

Resources:

• Catechism of the Catholic Church can be viewed here, checked out through the parish or purchased at most book stores.
• FORMED! is a revolutionary online platform featuring the best Catholic videos, audio talks, eBooks and movies from trusted partners like the Augustine Institute, St. Paul Center, Marian Fathers, Lighthouse Catholic Media, Ignatius Press and Word on Fire. Catechism and Personal Faith Formation are at the fingertips of every parishioner.
• Word on Fire is a Catholic media organization that uses digital and traditional media to introduce Catholicism to the broader world, founded by Bishop Robert Barron.
• Fr. Troy’s weekly Homilies Stay up to date on what Father is preaching and how he integrates the Sunday Gospels into our everyday lives.
• Catechism in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz If you have ever wanted to understand what it means to be Catholic and allow those truths to shape your life–this podcast is for you!

How do I inquire about the joining the Catholic Church?

Contact our OCIA Coordinator, Stefanie at 616-241-4477 Ext. 1105 or email, pa@ihmparish.com