Order of Christian Initiation of Adults: OCIA

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, OCIA, is a process for individuals never baptized, baptized non-Catholics, or baptized Catholics who have never received Eucharist and/or Confirmation. OCIA introduces them to the Catholic faith and helps them develop an appropriate understanding of the faith necessary to join the Church.

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For those wishing to join the Church, and for volunteers, this is a weekly commitment from September through Easter. Participants will review reading materials; reflect on a personal encounter with Christ; share knowledge through a team approach.

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Individuals wanting to become Catholic, and persons desiring to be part of the OCIA team should contact our priests at 440‑327‑1978, stjbc@stjuliebilliart.org

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Volunteer Opportunity

Each candidate for OCIA needs a sponsor, a Catholic in good standing to walk with him or her through the process of joining the Catholic Church. You may have encouraged a friend to join the faith and want to be a sponsor. If you feel called to be part of this ministry, please call our priests, 440‑327‑1978, stjbc@stjuliebilliart.org, for more information.

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For Children: OCIC

The Order of Christian Initiation of Children, OCIC, introduces individual students to the Catholic faith and helps them develop an appropriate understanding of what it means to be a Catholic.

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This is a PSR (Parish School of Religion) pull-out program for children in 1st - 8th grade.  We will adapt this program for teens as needed. Students meet with a volunteer catechist to discuss basic beliefs of the Catholic faith. This takes place during normal PSR time once or twice a month as needed to advance understanding of our faith to the appropriate grade level. Individualized lessons are given based on the child's current developmental stage and understanding of our faith. Among other things, we review the Apostle's Creed and have hands-on activities to help children learn about what Catholics believe.

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For Example: If your second grader missed first grade PSR  then he or she will be enrolled in OCIC during normal PSR class time once or twice a month for the current school year. This offers your child the opportunity to make his or her First Reconciliation and First Communion with his or her class that same year. 

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Another Example: If your family is new to the Catholic faith this program offers your child the opportunity to move along with other students in his or her grade level. Students will learn about our faith and be prepared to receive Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion, or Confirmation as needed.

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For more information contact: Mrs. Kelly Reed at stjbcyouth@gmail.com or call the office at 440‑327‑1978.

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Volunteer Opportunity

We are always looking for catechists to share their faith with young people. This is a good ministry for a person who feels called to help children smoothly enter into an age appropriate PSR class, enhance the understanding of our faith, and help with sacramental preparedness. If you feel called to be involved in this ministry contact Mrs. Reed at stjbcyouth@gmail.com or call the office at 440‑327‑1978.

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