Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)


OCIA

A Journey Into the Catholic Faith

“Come, follow me.” — Matthew 4:19

OCIA

What is OCIA?



The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process by which adults are welcomed into full communion with the Roman Catholic Church.

It is also intended for those who are unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or baptized Catholics who have not yet received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.

Through prayer, formation, and community, participants are guided toward receiving the Sacraments of InitiationBaptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist—which unite us fully with Christ and His Church.

After Baptism (for the unbaptized), participants are also invited to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a powerful gift of God’s mercy and spiritual healing.


The OCIA process follows four key stages:

Period of Inquiry (Pre-Catechumenate): A time of initial exploration and asking questions

Catechumenate: Ongoing formation in Scripture, Church teaching, and prayer

Purification and Enlightenment: A period of spiritual preparation during Lent

Mystagogy: Post-Easter reflection on the sacraments and full participation in the life of the Church

CLASSES BEGIN SEPTEMBER 18!

Divine Mercy Room 6:30 PM

Breaking Open the Word

Sundays with OCIA – Listening, Reflecting, Growing in Faith

As part of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), participants are invited to attend Breaking Open the Word each Sunday..

This is an essential part of the OCIA journey, offering participants a chance to reflect more deeply on the Sunday Scriptures. This prayerful time helps those preparing for the sacraments grow in their relationship with Christ through the living Word of God and better understand how His message speaks to their daily lives.

Sundays | 9:00 AM


All are welcome—whether you're curious, seeking, or ready to begin your journey into the Catholic faith.

We are here to walk with you every step of the way.

Ready to take the next step?


We would love to accompany you. Please get in touch with our parish office to learn more.

Or click on the button below to complete the Inquiry form.



St. Catherine of Siena R.C. Church Address

31 Asbury Road

Farmingdale, NJ 07727



St. Catherine of Siena Chapel Address

1 West Main Street

Farmingdale, NJ 07727


Weekend Mass

Saturday Vigil Mass

4:30 PM

Sunday Mass

8:00 AM / 10:00 AM / 11:30 AM

Holy Days of Obligation

9:00 AM / 7:00 PM

unless otherwise announced

Weekday Mass

Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 9:00 AM

Held at 31 Asbury Rd until further notice


Confession

Saturday

3:30 PM (or by appointment)

St. Catherine of Siena Parish Office

Hours of Operation

Sunday

9:00 AM - 12:45 PM

Monday through Thursday

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Copyright 2025 st. catherine of siena roman Catholic Church | All Rights Reserved.

Get the Latest News Via Email

Add your "Form" element below.

Quid, si non sensus modo ei sit datus, verum etiam animus hominis? Nec vero sum nescius esse utilitatem in historia, non modo voluptatem. Duo Reges: constructio interrete. Tum ille timide vel potius verecunde: Facio, inquit.

Using the Amplify Mobile App Builder?

Get direct links to your app in the Apple and Google Play Stores! Launch & Promote your App

Not using Amplify Mobile App Builder? Learn More

Close menu