OCIA - For Children
OCIAAC – ORDER of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children
REGISTRATION FORM
Frequently Asked Questions
How is OCIA Adapted for Children different from OCIA?
OCIA for Children is planned and taught to engage and appeal to younger learners and is appropriate for those in 3rd grade and above. We will cover information on the Sacraments, especially the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation, and will also learn about important prayers, liturgical seasons, and traditions of the Catholic faith.
When do classes meet?
Sundays after the 11am mass at St. Benedict.
Sessions for the 2025/26 school year are being planned.
If you are interested, or have any questions, feel free to drop in at the following sessions:
June 23 7pm in St. Benedict church
July 16 7pm in St. John church
August 28 7pm at St. Alphonsus Family Center (entrance off of 58th St.)
What is the commitment outside of the Sunday classes?
Much of the workbook should be done together as a family, with classes meant to be a review and check in. Families should attend weekly mass as part of the OCIA process and beyond.
Additionally, families are expected to attend the Rite of Election at St. James Cathedral (usually just after Ash Wednesday), the Scrutinies at three masses during Lent, along with the Holy Day masses during Lent, including Ash Wednesday, Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, and Good Friday.
Do my children need godparents?
Yes, you should ask at least one confirmed Catholic over the age of 16 to be a sponsor, or godparent, for your child. If you would like to have two sponsors, that is fine but not required. Sponsors are invited to attend Rites and the Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation, and parents may also stand in for sponsors when they live at a distance.
When will my child be baptized?
Children usually receive the Sacraments of Initiation, including Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation with the adults who have completed the OCIA process at the Easter Vigil Mass, held the Saturday evening before Easter each year. Next year the Easter Vigil is April 4. This special liturgy begins at sunset.
What if my child was already baptized?
If your child was baptized in another faith tradition they will make what we call a "Profession of Faith", and the process is exactly the same, just without the baptism. We will need a copy of the baptismal certificate from the place of baptism, whether catholic or other faith tradition.
Do I need to buy a white gown or suit for Baptism?
You will need to have a white dress or light colored dress clothes outfit for your child to change into after he/she is baptized. Girls often wear a white dress or primarily white skirt or pants and top; Boys often wear a white dress shirt and light colored pants. These do not need to be first communion gowns or suits, but they can be if your child wants to wear something fancier. The parish does have some white dress clothes available to borrow. If this would be helpful to you, please let your catechist know.
For further information:
Daniel Pelfrey CEFF@stjohnsea.org
