OCIA
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults
The Holy Trinity OCIA Ministry is Joyfully Preparing for Our 2026 Season!
The Catholic Church warmly welcomes those who are seeking to join its faith community. At Holy Trinity, we offer the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) — a process of study, reflection, and discernment for adults exploring Catholicism and considering becoming Catholic.
This journey typically takes place over several months and includes learning about the faith, participating in parish life, and preparing to receive the sacraments. OCIA is also open to baptized Catholic adults who have not yet received Communion and/or Confirmation.
- There will be opportunities on August 31st to learn more about the process and to meet members of the Holy Trinity OCIA Team.
- Classes will begin in September, after Labor Day.
For more information, please email [email protected] or call the church office.
Who Can Apply?
The Process
01
Inquiry & Initial Learning
The process begins with several weeks of inquiry and instruction. During this time, individuals interested in the Catholic faith explore the core beliefs of the Church, its sacraments, rituals, and basic history. This is a period of open discussion where inquirers are encouraged to ask questions of OCIA team members and guest speakers to deepen their understanding.
02
Commitment and Deeper Formation
After the initial phase, participants are invited to affirm their decision to continue the conversion journey. This leads to an extended period of weekly classes and faith-building activities. During this stage, participants begin engaging more actively with the parish community through regular attendance, service opportunities, and involvement in the parish life.
03
Preparation and Sacraments
For those who choose to move forward, the next step is a focused time of prayer, reflection, and preparation for receiving the sacraments. This culminates in Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. At Holy Trinity, Baptism typically takes place during the Easter Vigil, and Confirmation is celebrated either at easter or on the Feast of Christ the King in late autumn.
04
Ongoing Faith Formation
Period of continued reflection, prayer, and support for the newly baptized or confirmed Catholics. This time helps deepen their spiritual growth and encourages further integration into the faith community, allowing them to live out their catholic identity with confidence and commitment.
Important Things You Should Know
I’m engaged to marry a Catholic and we want to be married in the Catholic church. What should I do?
We encourage your interest in marrying in the church, but discourage entry into the OCIA process for the sole purpose of marriage in the Church. Since initiation into the faith is a long-term commitment, we suggest you proceed with the marriage then enter the OCIA process after careful thought and prayer.
What documents are required for becoming Catholic?
Baptized Christians of another faith will need a copy of their baptismal record. Copies of marriage certificates and decrees of annulment in the Church may be required if appropriate.
When Does The Process Start?
The formal class season begins Sunday mornings in the fall (usually early September), moving toward receiving of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil (Saturday night before Easter)
Inquirers are welcome and encouraged to reach out at any time however.
Volunteer?
Are you a HT Catholic and would like to serve as a Sponsor to an Inquirer, or help lead Sunday readings reflection discussions? We would love to hear from you! Email: [email protected]
What if I’m married civilly, divorced, or divorced and remarried?
If you were married in a civil ceremony or if you are divorced, or divorced and remarried, the Church may require an annulment or convalidation. Your circumstances should be addressed before beginning OCIA with a priest of the Parish to discuss your specific circumstances.
What about attendance?
Regular participation is strongly encouraged at all Sunday meetings, days of prayer and community service events. Attendance is viewed as a commitment to the process. Please feel free to discuss any attendance conflicts with one of the OCIA team members.
Can/Does anyone help me?
You will be paired with a sponsor to help you throughout the initiation process. Sponsors are fully initiated Catholics chosen from the Holy Trinity community. Spouses or fiancées may assist the participant, but are not encouraged to act as their sponsor. The OCIA team is always available to answer questions and to select your sponsor.
Those who seek the sacrament of Baptism may choose a godparent in addition to their sponsor. Details will be explained during the process
How can I learn more?
Email: [email protected]