OCIA at St. James is a faith journey providing an opportunity to grow and deepen in faith while discovering how God is active in everyday life. Whether a person has a strong faith with a lot of religious formation or none at all, OCIA is a chance to learn more about the Catholic Church. Participants in OCIA, through sharing and discussion about Catholic beliefs and practices, learn about the Catholic Church. The OCIA process includes presentations, sharing, and questions and answers about the Church and its beliefs, sacraments, traditions, customs and symbols.It is a requirement for all participants in the OCIA to have a sponsor who is willing to accompany them through this process. This personal sponsor (a spouse, friend, or relative) must be a practicing Catholic. If a personal sponsor does not meet this requirement or if the person does not want to choose a personal sponsor, arrangements will be made for a parish sponsor.
Catechumens and Candidates Those who are not baptized are called, "Catechumens". They begin meeting in the Pre-catechumenate (at least six months to one year before the Fall sessions) studying topics on Christianity, Catholicism, and Scripture. These sessions are held to help prepare the catechumens for entering the September instruction sessions in preparation for the celebration of the Initiation Sacraments of Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.Those who are baptized in another Christian tradition are called "Candidates". They begin the OCIA sessions in September, based on their level of instruction and understanding about Christianity, the Church, and faith. They may need to attend the pre-catechumenate sessions before entering the Fall sessions. At the Easter Vigil, the candidates make a Profession of Faith, receive First Communion and Confirmation in the Catholic Church.
Those people baptized Catholic who have not experienced any religious instruction in the faith and who are seeking to receive their First Communion and/or Confirmation will also join the OCIA process before receiving Sacraments. They also may need to attend the Pre-catechumenate for one year. The OCIA process is designed to respect the dignity of all Baptisms and the value of all religious backgrounds. In the OCIA process participants will meet and get to know others who are on their "spiritual journey" while involved in the OCIA journey. A baptismal certificate is required for all baptized OCIA participants. This proof of baptism can be obtained by contacting the church where the Baptism took place. This can be a baptismal Certificate or letter.
Opportunities for Spiritual Growth OCIA is a process that provides basic information about Christianity and the Catholic Church. In addition it provides an opportunity to experience a Catholic Christian community worshiping, praising, sharing, socializing and fellowship. The community journeys together, learning and educating themselves on their life-long journey, seeking to know God better and to develop a love relationship with God.
OCIA Meeting Schedule Catechumens and candidates with no previous religious education need to contact the Parish Office to begin the OCIA process. Those individuals not baptized are required to attend the Pre-catechumenate sessions. These sessions (focusing on learning about Christianity, Catholicism, and Scripture) will be scheduled on an individual basis. Pre-catechumen sessions begin with your call at any time, so call 402-572-0499, as soon as possible to start the process. The OCIA sessions are held every Thursday evening in the Parish Center. These sessions are held September through Easter and Pentecost (April or May.)
HOW DO I REGISTER OR BECOME A SPONSOR?
Click the link below and fill out the form to take the next step. Once submitted, the information will go directly to Fr. Tom, and he'll be in touch with you. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our office at 402-572-0499.
