Explore Catholicism

September-May
Join us on Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30pm.
Contact: [email protected] or call 651-457-2781

September - October
 Period of Inquiry  This is the initial stage of one's faith journey within the O.C.I.A. process. It is a time of hearing the Gospel, a time to sort out questions and motivations, a time of introduction into the faith life of the Catholic Church. Participants in this phase of the process are called "inquirers".  The Rite of Acceptance & Welcome is held in November.

November - February
 Period of the Catechumenate  This is the phase when much of the teaching (catechesis) takes place. It presumes an initial commitment to the O.C.I.A. process (a form of conversion) as one explores the beliefs, values, prayer and mission of the Catholic Church. Participants in the phase of the process are called "catechumens" (if not baptized yet) or "candidates for full communion" (if baptized already).

March - April
 Period of Purification & Enlightenment  This phase in O.C.I.A. is a time of discernment for both the candidates and the catechumens -- now called "the elect". The season of Lent provides a period of spiritual retreat to examine the moments that God has "broken through" and given enlightenment in the preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation. Accounts within the Gospel of  John will help the elect and candidates to discern their readiness for the Sacraments of Initiation as the Easter Vigil approaches.  Rite of Election is held at the Cathedral of St. Paul.

April - May
 The Period of Mystagogy  Received as new members of the Body of Christ, the newly baptized and confirmed continue their formation as they celebrate and reflect on the mysteries they have encountered in the Sacraments of Initiation.  This phase brings newly initiated through the transition from O.C.I.A. community to the full life of the parish.