Are you interested in becoming a Catholic? Are you a Catholic who has not yet received Communion or Confirmation? The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults is the way by which we welcome new Catholics into the Church. 

Those interested in becoming Catholic are asked to meet with Father da Luz. You may book an appointment with him using this link:  Fr. da Luz.

 “The Church has always looked on catechesis as a sacred duty and an inalienable right. On the one hand, it is certainly a duty springing from a command given by the Lord and resting above all on those who in the new covenant receive the call to the ministry of being pastors. On the other hand, one can likewise speak of a right: from the theological point of view every baptized person, precisely the reason of being baptized, has the right to receive from the Church instruction and education enabling him or her to enter a truly Christian life.” - Catechesi Tradendae # 14, John Paul II 3. RCIA 

It’s very easy to become part of a small group of adults who are preparing to receive sacraments in the Catholic Church. If you 're curious or just want to ask questions about the Catholic faith, contact Fr. da Luz  or 631-261-1077, ext. 204.

OCIA is the process by which the Catholic Church initiates adults into the Roman Catholic Community. It consists of four carefully planned stages, each marked by liturgical rites: 

The Period of Inquiry

During this period, which many last from a few weeks to a few months, individuals hear the preaching of the Gospel. Inquirers are invited to ask questions about the Church, share their own faith stories and decide whether they wish to continue. Those who wish to continue celebrate the Rite of Acceptance and enter the second period.

The Period of the Catechumenate

This is a more intense period of instruction where individuals may develop an understanding of Church teachings, participate in liturgical rites, and learn the importance of prayer. Marking the transition between the second and third periods, the Rite of Election is celebrated for the unbaptized and the Call to Continuing Conversion is celebrated for those who are already baptized. These usually take place early in Lent and open a period of more intense preparation. In these rites, catechumens (the unbaptized) and candidates (those already baptized) publicly express their conversion of heart, mind and spirit to the Christian teachings of faith and charity. They are now known as the "elect."

The Period of Enlightenment and Purification

This period, which usually lasts through Lent, includes special liturgical ceremonies at the Lenten masses, as well as preparation rites. The “elect” spend time reflecting on their religious experiences and faith. This period climaxes at the Easter Vigil with the sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist).

The Period of Mystagogia

This is the final stage of OCIA - it may also be called the Post-Baptismal Catechesis. It lasts from Easter to Pentecost and, during this stage of Initiation, the newly initiated experience being a part of the Christian community. Together with the community, they develop a deeper understanding of the mystery of Jesus’ Death and Resurrection. As the new part of the community, they gather together to celebrate Sunday Masses, share the sacraments, read and study scriptures, perform acts of Christian service, and live and pray the Gospel in their daily lives. 

The OCIA also serves as a focus for ongoing conversion for all members of a parish. As Catholics witness new candidates learning the doctrine, they are encouraged to study their faith themselves. As they participate in the liturgical ceremonies welcoming new members, they can renew their own commitment to Jesus and strengthen their own relationship with God.