Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (O.C.I.A.)
This class is for those considering becoming Catholic as well as for Catholics who feel like they need a refresher on the basics of the Catholic Faith. The class will be led by Hans Whitmer, Director of Adult and Family Ministry, using Augustine Institute’s “Symbolon” program. It will run on Tuesday evenings starting September 23 from 7:15 – 8:45 PM in Room 400. There will also be a morning class that will run on Wednesdays beginning September 24th from 9:45 – 11:15 AM in room 400. For questions or to register, please contact Hans Whitmer at (616) 676-9111 ext 113 or email HWhitmer@StRobertChurch.org.
The stages of the OCIA are:
- Precatechumenate (or Inquiry) – A time for growing in relationship with Jesus Christ and asking questions about the Catholic Church’s teachings and practices.
- Catechumenate – An opportunity to reflect more deeply on the Sunday Scriptures, delve more deeply into the foundational Church teachings, and experience the life of the faith community.
- Celebration of The Sacraments of Initiation – During the Easter Vigil on April 19, 2025.
- Mystagogy – Continued reflection on the experience of the Sacraments and exploration of the mysteries of the Catholic faith.
Precatechuemnate / Inquiry
All who have questions about faith in Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Catholic Church are invited to contact:
- Hans Whitmer, Director of Faith Formation: hwhitmer@strobertchurch.org or (616) 676-9111 ext 113
- Fr. Tony Russo, Pastor: trusso@strobertchurch.org or (616) 676-9111 ext 122
- Fr. Logan Weber, Parochial Vicar: lweber@strobertchurch.org or (616) 676-9111 ext 131
Catechumenate
After the Inquiry period, those who are looking toward full initiation into the Catholic Church participate in the period of the Catechumenate. Catechumens, as persons preparing for Baptism are called, are invited to attend Sunday 9:00 a.m. Mass. They are dismissed after the homily to reflect on and discuss the Sunday Scripture readings and to explore living as baptized Christians in the faith community of the Church.
Celebration of The Sacraments of Initiation
Full initiation into the Catholic Church is celebrated with the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Communion at the Easter Vigil.
Mystagogy
The newly baptized continue to explore what it means to be Catholic throughout the period of Mystagogy and lifelong participation in the life of the Church.
Christian Initiation of Children
Children who are age 8-18 who have not been baptized are prepared for full initiation into the Catholic Church by celebrating the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Communion. They participate in faith formation and also participate in sacrament preparation sessions and the rites of the OCIA. Contact the Faith Formation Office for information at faithformation@strobertchurch.org or (616) 676-9111 ext 114.