In the sacraments of Christian initiation we are freed from the power of darkness and joined to Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection.
Want to know what Catholics believe, or what is involved in becoming a Catholic?
Firstly, welcome and thank you for enquiring about what the Catholic faith is all about!
We offer those who are interested – or just curious about the Catholic Faith – the opportunity to ask questions and discuss what it means to be Catholic.
If you feel like you would like to know more about the purpose and meaning of the faith or what it involves to be a Catholic, do not hesitate to contact Brendan Woodnutt - our OCIA Coordinator
How do I become Catholic?
To become Catholic, a person is Baptised in the name of “the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit” and receives the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist.
If someone is already Baptised, they do not get re-baptised but receive the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
These sacraments of Christian initiation are normally received at Easter but can be received at another time if the individual feels like they are not ready to receive these Sacraments at Easter.
What is the process?
In the Catholic Church the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is a process in which an individual journeys through to become a full member of the Catholic faith. This journey is something not to be rushed.
After a period of initial inquiry, OCIA normally takes about 9 months and tends to starts in the middle of the calendar year - but this is catered for individuals for everyone’s journey is different!
OCIA involves a weekly session during the school terms and incorporates prayer, reflection and teaching in a group environment. The journey towards Baptism is a period of exploring, learning, growing and discerning.
Exploring who Jesus is, what He said and what He did.
Learning about the Church teaching that flows from the life of Jesus.
Growing in a personal relationship with Jesus, our friend and personal Lord and Saviour.
Discerning God’s will in your life and where He is leading you.
The journey is not one that is taken by oneself but one in which you share your journey with others guided by an OCIA team. In a general sense you are supported by the whole Parish as the community of faith. If both you and the Church community discern that it is Baptism that you truly desire and you are ready for it, then you will receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, just like those in the very early Church.
What do I do now?
If you’re still searching, and wanting to know more about what we believe in, the Alpha Programme is a perfect opportunity to find out more.
Still unsure on what to do? Fill out the form below and one of our team members will get in touch with you.