Order of christian initiation
OCIA
OCIA stands for “Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.” It is the ritual text that governs the Christian initiation process. Note that “OCIA” does not refer to the process itself, it is the text that governs the process.
Christian initiation is the Church’s process of evangelization, catechesis, conversion, and sacramental initiation by which people become disciples of Jesus and members of His Church. It is a journey we should all feel responsible for (OCIA 9).
Initiation ministry in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is supported via a collaboration between the Office of Divine Worship and the Sacraments and the Center for the New Evangelization.
- If you have questions about how to celebrate the rites and liturgies of the process or how to register for the Rite of Election, see the Office of Divine Worship and the Sacraments.
- If you have questions about catechesis, evangelization, accompaniment, formation, or difficult pastoral situations within the initiation process – or if you’re just wondering what’s involved in becoming Catholic – you are in the right place!
Click the area below that best pertains to you:
Upcoming Events
Light the Match
6245 Wilmington Pike Dayton, OH 45459
Volunteer Catechist Training: St Joseph Deanery
229 N 3rd St, Hamilton, OH 45011
Contact us
OCIA Contact Form
Each page at the buttons above has a Q&A that answers the most common questions we receive. You can also submit questions via the form below or email Nicholas Hardesty ([email protected]).

