The Catechumenate–The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
Prayer, discussion, and ritual.
The Catechumenate (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults OCIA, previously known as the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults RCIA) is a gradual process of initiation into the Catholic faith through a process of prayer, discussion, study, and ritual.
It is intended for:
- Unbaptized adults who wish to explore the Catholic faith and possibly prepare for the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
- Adults baptized in another Christian community who wish to learn more about the Catholic faith and be received into the Church.
- Baptized Catholics who have not received the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation who wish to enter into full communion with the Church.
We look forward to welcoming those inquiring about the Catholic Church on an ongoing basis throughout the year. Our parish offers regular opportunities for prayer, discussion, and study, as well as opportunities to take part in other parish ministries and activities. Jesus calls each of us to “Go, make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:18).
We are always ready to accompany adults as they explore and deepen their relationship with Christ.
To learn more about the OCIA process or the Catholic faith, or to discuss joining the OCIA Team, please contact Mr. Musco, Director of Lifelong Faith Formation via email by clicking here.
Adult Confirmation
Any adult interested in receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation should contact Mr. Musco via email by clicking here or by calling 860-633-9419. Those who wish to receive Confirmation must have already been Baptized and received the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
Preparation sessions are held periodically and you will be notified once we receive your contact information. For those who have been prepared, Confirmation is celebrated in the Spring and Fall at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Hartford.
Lifelong Faith Formation
According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, effective faith formation is built on six core dimensions:
- Knowledge of the Faith: Understanding Scripture, Church doctrine, and the Catechism.
- Liturgical Life: Active participation in the sacraments and the Mass.
- Moral Formation: Developing a Christian conscience based on Gospel values.
- Prayer: Learning and engaging in various forms of Catholic prayer.
- Communal Life: Building fellowship and supporting the local parish community.
- Missionary Spirit: Sharing the Gospel and serving the wider community. [1, 2, 3]
The Office of Lifelong Faith Formation will provide opportunities to address each of the areas listed above.
“Start small, following in faith the Gospel logic of the ‘mustard seed,’ confident that the Lord will never fail to provide you, at the right time, with the energy, people, and graces you need,” Pope Leo said, encouraging his listeners to trust in the Blessed Virgin Mary and imitate her faith.