A note on the name: RCIA is now OCIA
In November 2021, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops approved a new English translation of the ritual book, with a new title: the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, replacing the long-familiar Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). The change came from a more faithful translation of the original Latin title, Ordo Initiationis Christianae Adultorum — "Ordo" is now rendered "Order," as in the other recently retranslated liturgical books (the Order of Mass, the Order of Celebrating Matrimony). The new translation became mandatory on Ash Wednesday 2025. The periods, the rites, and the sacraments themselves are unchanged; the translation revised the wording of the ritual texts — so don't be surprised if your parish, an older pamphlet, or a Catholic friend still calls it "RCIA." Both names point to the same journey into the Church.
Who is OCIA for?
- The unbaptized, of any age or background, who are drawn to the Catholic faith.
- Baptized Christians from another tradition who wish to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church.
- Baptized Catholics who, for whatever reason, never received Confirmation or First Communion as children.
Whatever the starting point, the process is personal and unhurried. There is no set curriculum to race through — it is paced around real growth in faith, prayer, and understanding, alongside sponsors and a parish community who walk it with you.
How to begin
The best first step is simple: contact a local Catholic parish and ask about their OCIA program. The Order has always envisioned a flexible process: many parishes welcome inquirers throughout the year rather than only in the fall, and each person moves through the stages at a pace suited to their own readiness rather than a single fixed schedule. The Easter Vigil is the proper time for the unbaptized to receive the sacraments of initiation. Already-baptized Christians are often received into full communion at another time of year, following their bishop's norms.
The Journey, in Four Periods
Inquiry (Precatechumenate)
An unhurried season of asking honest questions, with no commitment required — simply getting to know the Church and letting her get to know you.
Purification & Enlightenment
Typically during Lent, following the Rite of Election — where the unbaptized formally become "the elect" before the bishop, while already-baptized candidates take part in a parallel Call to Continuing Conversion — this period is one of intense prayer and reflection before Easter.