OCIA stands for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, which is the Catholic Church's process of welcoming adults into the faith. It was formerly known as RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults).
This process includes faith formation, study, prayer, and active participation in the life of the Church, ultimately leading to the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
The OCIA process is designed to walk with you toward full communion with the Catholic Church whether you are unbaptized, baptized in another Christian tradition, or baptized Catholic but have not received the sacraments of Confirmation or First Communion. This class is also open to non-Catholics interested in learning more about Catholicism, and cradle Catholics who want a refresher on the basics of the Catholic faith.
When and Where Are Classes Held?
OCIA Classes at St. Anne Catholic Church are held on: Sunday mornings from 9:15 AM to 10:15 AM between the 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM Masses in the CYM-Youth Center.
Classes will formally begin on Sunday August 10, 2025.
We will also be hosting three "Inquiry Meet and Greets" on June 29, July 13, and August 3 in the CYM-Youth Center between 9:15 AM to 10:15AM, to give you the opportunity to come and ask any and all of your questions before classes begin.
Our OCIA Leadership Team
At Saint Anne Catholic Church, our OCIA team is here to walk with you as you explore and grow in your Catholic faith. Our OCIA program is led by a dedicated team who accompany individuals through every step of their faith formation with prayer, teaching, and support.
Rev. Dawid Kwiatkowski, Pastor
Father Dawid provides spiritual leadership and oversight for the OCIA program, guiding the parish community in welcoming new members into the Catholic Church.
Deacon Benjamin Ernst, Permanent Deacon and OCIA Director
Deacon Ben serves as the director of the OCIA program, coordinating and overseeing the process of guiding participants in faith formation and preparation for the Sacraments and full initiation into the Church.
Kate Upshaw, OCIA Administrative Assistant
Kate coordinates the daily operations of the OCIA program, including communication, documentation, scheduling, participant, and team support.
Our Catechists and Sponsors
The OCIA catechist team is made up of parish volunteers who joyfully share the Catholic faith through teaching, personal witness, and accompaniment. They guide catechumens and candidates as they grow in understanding and love of Christ and His Church.
Each participant is also paired with a sponsor –a faithful, confirmed Catholic from our parish– who will walk alongside them throughout the process, offering personal support, prayer and encouragement.
Ready to join us?
If you are interested in joining the OCIA class or serving as a sponsor, please register using the form links at the top of this page. We are so excited to accompany you as you take this next step in faith!