Contact: Sr. Kathleen Fitzpatrick, Director of Religious Education
Religious Education Office: 215-659-4059
Email: kfitzpatrick@stdavidparish.org
Do you have questions about the Faith? Or are you thinking about becoming Catholic yourself? Do you need to receive any or all of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist?
Christian Initiation for Adults is a on-going process designed for adults who wish to deepen their understanding or are curious about the Catholic Faith, as well as those who are considering becoming Catholic.
COME JOIN US!
CIA is a spiritual process for anyone who is inquiring about the Catholic Faith, and also for Catholics who are already baptized, but who, for some reason, were never instructed in the faith or celebrated the Sacraments of Confirmation and/or Holy Eucharist.
Also, an invitation is extended to anyone who is interested in being a catechist or a Parish Support Person to those being instructed.
Contact Sr. Kathleen Fitzpatrick at the phone number above for information regarding the RCIA process, send an email to kfitzpatrick@stdavidparish.org, or call the rectory at 215-657-0252.
Each year, during the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday, the Church welcomes new Catholics. It is the final step of a faith journey that begins with an openness to learn about the Catholic faith. This journey is formally referred to as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). Listed below are some frequently asked questions about OCIA. (Select the arrow to view each answer.)
How committed to becoming Catholic do I have to be to participate?
While OCIA is commonly seen as “the process to become Catholic”, this is a misconception. It is much more. When someone is curious about the Catholic Church, or feels drawn to leaning more about it, OCIA meetings provide the environment to ask questions and to participate in conversations with Catholics and other inquirers about what it means to live the Christian life in the Catholic tradition. There is no commitment required to participate in meetings.
When and how do I join meetings?
The first step is to come with an open mind. Anyone who is interested in exploring the Catholic Church is welcome to come to the weekly meetings. No commitments are required. The meetings are intended to help each participant learn about the Catholic faith. The meetings are held weekly on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Msgr. Bolger Upper Room. Pre-registration is not necessary; just come and see.
Are OCIA meetings like taking a course?
Absolutely not. The OCIA is a process of faith formation, catechesis (teaching of the faith), and spiritual growth. While reading/resources may be suggested or recommended, there are no requirements like one might have when taking a formal course. Topics of the faith are presented in a conversational manner with a strong emphasis on faith sharing.
What if I want to become Catholic?
If you feel an interior desire to become Catholic, either before participating in any OCIA meetings or as a participant in meetings, you are encouraged to reach out to the pastor, deacon, or a catechist. They will guide you through the next step in your faith journey.
What if I am a baptized (non-Catholic) Christian?
Whether you seek to enter into full communion with the Catholic Church or wish to learn more about the Catholic faith, OCIA meetings provide the environment to ask questions and learn. The meetings are not a means to “convert” anyone, but rather a forum to talk about the faith and gain a deeper understanding. If the Holy Spirit moves you to seek full communion with the Catholic Church, please reach out to the pastor, deacon, or a catechist to learn more about this process.
What if I am a baptized Catholic but never received Confirmation?
If you are Catholic but never completed full Christian initiation (baptism, confirmation, and reception of the Eucharist), you are welcome to join our OCIA meetings to prepare for completing Christian initiation. We encourage you to talk to the pastor, deacon, or a catechist to discuss your particular situation.
How long does it take to become Catholic – if that is what I want to do?
The length of time varies because every person’s situation is unique. Your faith journey is as individual as you are. God calls every person to have an intimate relationship with him, and your response to that call will take you through different stages of spiritual growth. The catechists, deacon, and the pastor will walk with you in your journey towards preparation for the reception of the sacraments of initiation.
It is important to note that sacraments are never earned. There are no tests or evaluations to pass. Readiness for the reception of the sacraments is about inner spiritual disposition. It is not about how much you know, but rather about how you respond to the Holy Spirit working within you.
What if I start feeling unsure about continuing?
A journey of faith involves exploring new things. It may bring about feelings of uncertainty and doubt. It is always a good idea to bring your concerns to one of the catechists. They are committed to working with you, and can facilitate further discission about your concerns with the pastor or deacon. In any case, the goal is never to convince you to ignore your doubts. If at any time you feel that now is not the time to explore Catholicism, you can step away. If you later decide to return to OCIA meetings, you will always be welcome.