OCIA

What is OCIA?

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), formerly known as RCIA, is the Catholic Church's official process for adults seeking to join the Church or complete their initiation sacraments. It guides participants—whether unbaptized, baptized Christians from other denominations, or Catholics needing Confirmation/Eucharist—through stages of inquiry, catechesis, purification, and sacraments, often culminating at Easter Vigil. This journey fosters conversion, prayer, Scripture study, and parish community life.

The OCIA team at St. Gerard’s welcomes anyone curious about the Catholic Faith, whether you're exploring conversion, deepening your understanding, or seeking to complete sacraments like Baptism, Confirmation, or Eucharist. Our ongoing sessions throughout the year provide a supportive space to discern your spiritual call at your own pace, without pressure.

We follow the renewed OCIA process (formerly known as RCIA), emphasizing prayer, catechesis, and community integration within the St. Gerard’s parish family.

To register, or for more information on the OCIA journey with the St. Gerard’s Community, please contact Colette Martinez (see Contact Us below) or the parish office. 

If you're interested in joining our OCIA program (whether baptized or unbaptized), we'll need some personal details about your marriage history and sacraments to help guide your journey properly.

• Download and print the OCIA Marriage Information form here.
• Complete it privately at home—it's confidential and includes questions about previous marriages, annulments, etc.
• Once filled out, please scan/email to the Pastoral Program Coordinator (see Contact Us on this page).
• Questions? Reach out to Colette Martinez—we're here to help!