OCIA - For Children

OCIAAC – ORDER of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children

REGISTRATION FORM

OCIAAC 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, seasons, and traditions of the Catholic faith.

When do classes meet?
An information session will be held at St. Benedict Parish School for our parish family (which includes St. John the Evangelist, St. Benedict and St. Alphonsus) Noon Sunday December 15.

Classes will be held at St. Benedict after the 11am mass on the following Sundays:

January 12

January 19

February 2

February 23

March 6 (Rite of Election)

March 9

March 23

March 30

April 6

April 13

April 19 (Easter Vigil)

April 27

May 4

May 18

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 March 6, the Scrutinies at the masses March 23, 30, and April 6, 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. This year the Easter Vigil is April 19. This special liturgy begins at sunset.

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.