Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) (formerly RCIA)

Thinking About Becoming Catholic or Know Someone Else Thinking About It? Here’s How to Join the Catholic Church!

​Are you wondering how to become Catholic? Whether you’re feeling a spiritual pull, exploring the beauty of Catholic teaching, or simply curious about the process, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of people begin the journey into the Catholic Church through a process called OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults).

Can Anyone Become Catholic?
Yes! Anyone can become Catholic, regardless of his or her background, past beliefs, or life experiences. The Catholic Church welcomes all who seek truth, meaning, and a relationship with Jesus Christ through his Church! Whether you're curious about Catholicism, exploring faith for the first time, or returning after time away, the path is open to you.

Through the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA), people from all walks of life can learn about Catholic beliefs, sacraments, and traditions. Becoming Catholic is a journey of faith, and the Church is ready to walk with you every step of the way.

OCIA: The Road to the Sacraments
What is OCIA in the Catholic Church?
OCIA stands for “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.” It is a program that instructs you in the Catholic Faith and forms you into a follower of Christ within the community of the faithful and the life of the Church. Until recently, this process was called RCIA, which stands for “Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults,” but the bishops of the United States recently decided to change the word “rite” to “order.” This change in terms more accurately indicates that joining the Catholic Faith does not simply involve participating in a set of rituals leading up to the reception of the sacraments, but rather involves a continual journey of spiritual formation and discipleship. 

Do I Need to Do OCIA to Become Catholic?
OCIA formation includes those who:
  • Are completely new to the Catholic Church and have not yet been baptized.
  • Were baptized Catholic but fell away from the Faith and never received First Communion and/or Confirmation.
  • Are already baptized Christians but do not yet profess the Catholic Faith. The Catholic Church recognizes Baptisms from other Christian faiths as long as they were administered according to the Biblical formula, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Baptism is a one-time sacrament, so if you were already baptized this way in a Protestant Church, you are set. However, you will enter the Church by professing the Catholic Faith and receiving Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist.


*Taken from Ascension Press:  ​https://ascensionpress.com/blogs/articles/how-to-become-catholic

United States Conference of catholic Bishops (USCCB) Resources

For More Information
Kelley Stuppy · 901-373-6011 · [email protected]

Additional Resources

Saint Ann Catholic Church and School
​6529 Stage Rd Bartlett, TN 38134
901-373-6011
Photo from Nilsfried