Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA)

Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) is the process by which an adult joins the Catholic faith.  This process includes studying the beliefs of the Church community (doctrinal formation), connecting with the Church community (practical formation), praying and worshipping with the Church community (liturgical formation), and serving with the Church community (apostolic formation).  The content and duration of the Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) process will vary based on the faith background of those approaching the church, but generally ranges from one to two years.  Those who have been previously baptized in a Christian tradition are invited into full communion in the Church through the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.  For those not baptized, this process leads to the Easter Vigil where they receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.  

At St. Maximilian Kolbe, The Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) process is available all year and generally progresses through three phases:  Inquiry, Candidacy, and Mystagogia.  During Inquiry, adults learn the basics of the faith, enough to discern entry to the next phase: Candidacy (or the Catechumenate, if not baptized).  In this phase they are matched with a Sponsor who provides spiritual companionship on their journey to becoming Catholic.  In these first two phases, participants meet weekly in addition to regular Mass attendance.  In addition, selected rituals during weekend mass mark the spiritual growth of the candidates as well as express the community's joy and concern for them.  Once a Candidate or Catechumen is welcomed into the church, they enter the final phase: Mystagogia, which consists of monthly sessions to help the new Catholics fully embrace their new identity and integrate into the parish.  

Still have questions? Please contact Dave Brunsman at dbrunsman@saint-max.org or 513-777-4322 Ext. 137 for more information.

The Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) process is supported by a team of Saint Maximilian parishioners who provide hospitality, catechesis, formation, and a yearly retreat. Sponsors are critical to the growth of those entering the church.  Since Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) is a year round process, we have needs for sponsors throughout the year.  Our volunteers regularly tell us that they receive far more than they give.   Accompanying these adults as they progress from questioning to learning to experiencing the joy that comes from sacramental union with Christ and His Church is a faith-renewing process for Sponsors, Team Members, and the whole parish community.  If you’d like to volunteer to be a part of the Becoming Catholic (RCIA / OCIA) process, please contact Dave Brunsman.