“You cannot solve the great problems of human destiny – problems which cannot be avoided – without accepting the mission of Christ and availing yourself of the Catholic Church.”
Isaac T. Hecker (“Dr. Brownson and Catholicity,” November 1887; “Catholic World” CW, 224)

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process through which interested adults and older children are introduced to the Catholic faith and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The OCIA process consists of reflection, prayer, instruction, discernment, and formation. Weekly focus sessions, attendance at Sunday Mass, “Breaking Open the Word” discussion groups, and involvement in parish activities, help participants prepare to receive the sacraments and full initiation into the church.

There are four phases in the OCIA. process:

  1. Inquiry: Individuals (Inquirers) join in informal group discussions about the faith and the teachings of the church.
  2. Catechumenate: Candidates for reception into the church learn and develop an understanding of Church teachings and the mystery of salvation.
  3. Purification and Enlightenment: During the Lenten period the focus is personal reflection on religious experience and faith.
  4. Mystagogy: This final period of initiation, the newly initiated experience being part of the Christian community.

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Contact: Sergio & Eileen Vargas • 858-484-9425 • s1vinsd@gmail.com


Order of Christian Initiation of Adults Adapted for Children

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults also applies to unbaptized children of catechetical age (generally seven years of age) as they are considered above the age of reason regarding the sacraments of initiation. The OCIA process is adapted to meet the specific needs of children and leads to the celebration of the three sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and First Eucharist.

For more information, including eligibility and meeting times, please contact Kelli Lawrenz.

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Contact: Kelli Lawrenz • 850-384-2660 • klawrenz@stggcs.org


2025-2026 Session

ALL ARE WELCOME!

If you are interested in knowing more about the Catholic faith or exploring the idea of becoming Catholic, OCIA may be just what you need. OCIA (adults) & OCIC (children) both meet on Tuesdays at 7:00 pm in the Parish Hall starting in September. Catholics who merely want to refresh their faith are also encouraged to join us.

If you want to learn more about the process, please contact Sergio & Eileen Vargas: 858-484-9425 • s1vinsd@gmail.com

 

Registration

Are you ready to take the first step? The confidential registration process has four parts. Please review the links below and contact us with any questions. We are excited to welcome you!

OCIA (adults) Registration:

Please click here to register online.

OCIC (children) Registration:

Please click here to register online.

Journey Agreement:

Please click here to register online.

Parish Registration:

Please click here to register online.
(Skip this step if you are already a member of the parish.)

Sponsor/Godparent:

Please click here to register online.

Schedule of Meetings

***Meetings are subject to change without notice. Please contact the ministry facilitator for the most current schedule.

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