Private sessions are available.
It is an initiation process by which individuals, ages 16 and older, are received into the fullness of the Catholic Church through reception of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation: Baptism; Confirmation; and Holy Eucharist (Communion). They attend weekly sessions to learn more about the faith and are prepared for the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion. Sessions begin in September and run through May and are held in the parish hall. St. Anthony the Abbot has a year-round program and welcomes inquirers at any time. The OCIA ministry is facilitated by dedicated members of the OCIA Team.
It is a journey of conversion comprised of four stages and Rites, a time of formation, a faith journey, and a time to discuss how Jesus has worked in one’s life.
The format includes prayer and instruction in Catholic traditions and teaching, along with lively discussions. OCIA provides the opportunity for one to come to know Christ personally through the Catholic Christian community.
Resources:
Register at: www.FORMED.org; Access code: 4KR96N (case sensitive)
How Often Does OCIA Meet?
The sessions are held weekly, September through Pentecost, in the Parish Hall. Call the office at 352-796-2096 ext 104 for day and time. We also offer a “Year Round Process” so you may inquire or participate any time throughout the year.
Meeting are held in the Parish Hall - Day & time to be announced
Welcome and fellowship
Session, including Discussion and Sharing, Q&A
Closing Prayer
1. Period of Inquiry or Pre-Catechumenate
This is a time for inquiry and introduction to Gospel values—an opportunity for the beginnings of faith.
2. Period of the Catechumenate
This is a time for the nurturing and growth of the catechumens’ faith and conversion to God; celebrations of the Word and prayers and blessings are meant to assist the process.
3. Period of Purification and Enlightenment
During the Lenten season and immediately preceding the elect’s initiation at the Easter Vigil Liturgy on Holy Saturday, this is a time of reflection, intensely centered on conversion, marked by the celebration of the Scrutinies, Presentations of the Creed and the Lord’s Prayer, and a Retreat.
4. Period of Postbaptismal Catechesis or Mystagogy
This is a time during the Easter season that follows the celebration of the Christian Initiation Sacraments at the Easter Vigil Liturgy on Holy Saturday. The newly initiated fully experience being a part of the Catholic Christian community by means of pertinent catechesis. They now participate fully in the Sunday Eucharistic celebrations.
After faithfully attending the OCIA process through Period Three, and attending Mass each Sunday, participants will receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and/or Holy Eucharist (Communion) on or around Pentecost of the following year.
In addition to our Pastor, Rev. Paul Pecchie, the Team is led by Jim Lehmann, and includes a dedicated group of Catholic Christian catechists who have a love of our Lord and a strong desire and passion to share their faith with those exploring the OCIA process.
The Team is eager to travel with you on your Journey of Faith, be there for you to answer your questions, and welcome you in Christian love.
"I feel more in touch with Christ since I started the OCIA process. It has brought me and my family closer together.”
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“It was an incredible experience and I should have done it sooner.
I enjoyed every minute and feel it taught me so many important things about Jesus and the Catholic faith.”
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"The OCIA process strengthened my beliefs and understandings of what Jesus sacrificed for us.”
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“I felt cared for and supported. The Role of Sponsor is significant; I have a new good friend now who is my sponsor.
Budding relationships with other seekers, hopefully, will develop into lasting friendships.”
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