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St. Augustine Catholic ChurchCatholic Church · Covington, Georgia

Faith Formation

OCIA: Becoming Catholic

Explore the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults and take a welcoming next step toward the Catholic faith.

What is OCIA?

OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. It is the path the Catholic Church offers to welcome individuals into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and into the Catholic faith community.

The OCIA journey

Becoming Catholic is a gradual process of spiritual and intellectual growth that unfolds through five periods.

  1. Inquiry

    Ask questions, explore faith, and discover whether OCIA is right for you. There is no pressure—just conversation.

  2. Catechumenate

    Learn about Jesus, the Church, Scripture, prayer, and Catholic teaching in a supportive group setting.

  3. Purification & Enlightenment

    Enter a time of deeper prayer, reflection, and preparation as you grow closer to God and the Church.

  4. Sacraments of Initiation

    Celebrate Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.

  5. Mystagogy

    After reception into the Church at Easter, continue reflecting on the mysteries of the Mass and the sacraments you now celebrate fully.

What to expect

OCIA is a welcoming community where you can pray, learn, build relationships, and prepare for sacramental life.

Prayer

God speaks to us in many ways. We begin and end with prayer, asking for guidance and grace.

Learning

Engaging sessions explain Scripture, Church teaching, and the beauty of the Catholic faith.

Community

Walk this path with others. Share, listen, ask questions, and build lasting friendships.

Sacraments

Receive the Sacraments of Initiation and become a full member of the Catholic Church.

Could OCIA be for you?

People begin asking about OCIA for many reasons. Do any of these questions sound familiar?

  • Have you experienced a yearning to be part of something larger than yourself?
  • Have you been looking for a deeper experience of spiritual truth?
  • Do you want to know more about God?
  • Are you interested in learning about the Catholic faith?
  • Are you married to a Catholic and attend Mass, but do not know how to become Catholic?

You are invited

This path is not just about becoming Catholic—it is about becoming more fully who God created you to be. All are welcome. There is no obligation—just an open door.

You belong here.

God is calling, and the Church is ready to welcome you. Your next step can be a simple conversation.

“We are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus.” — Ephesians 2:10

Download the OCIA program brochure (PDF)← Back to Faith Formation
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