The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the program tailored to adults who wish to become Catholic or who are seeking to find out more and explore.
There are also adults in our Family of Parishes who are baptized Christians but have not received Eucharist or Confirmation. OCIA prepares Candidates to receive these sacraments at the Easter Vigil.
Participants meet weekly to explore topics of faith, theology, Scripture, morals, devotions, and prayer. A team of Catholic parishioners provides guidance and support to the candidates throughout their journey.
To begin your process, contact our Parish Office: (716) 688-5678
Our OCIA program serves the whole Shepherd and Saints Roman Catholic Family of Parishes (St. Gregory the Great, St. Pius X, and Good Shepherd Parishes).
The Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) is a process of entering into full communion with the Catholic Church.
Each Candidate has a different story of why they are here. Maybe they are searching for a deeper faith experience, individually and as part of a parish community. Maybe they would like to become a Godparent but have not yet received Confirmation. Maybe they would like to know more about the Catholic Faith.
OCIA involves desire, discovery, discernment, and a decision. The decision may come early or late in the OCIA process. Each candidate may take a different path to arrive at the decision of whether they are ready to embrace the Catholic Faith and commit to completing the journey at Easter.
OCIA is structured through four phases:
The length of preparation depends on your individual needs. Our Team members are available throughout the year for questions and discussion on an individual basis.
The process concludes with candidates receiving sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) during the Easter Triduum at Holy Saturday Mass. Many significant milestones are reached along the way.
Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you...
To begin your process, or if you have questions, contact the Parish Office at (716) 688-5678. Alternately, simply watch in the Bulletin for when upcoming dates are announced! Walk-ins are welcome!
Inquiring or embarking on the Christian Initiation process does not impose any commitment on your part to complete the process.
We encourage you to take the necessary time for reflection on whether you will receive the sacraments and become Catholic, and we fully respect your decision.