OCIA

2024-2025 Schedule 

Adult Entrance into the Catholic Church takes place through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). The program involves instruction on practices and beliefs of the Church and the application of the Catholic faith in today's world.

How Do I Become Catholic?
For adults, the usual way to become a member of the Catholic Church is through The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). The OCIA is a gradual process of education and formation. Whether unbaptized or baptized in another Christian denomination, the OCIA program helps adults to grow in their relationship with God.

Sessions focus both on teachings and practices of the Catholic faith, as well as, the value and application of faith in our daily lives. The process of becoming a Catholic is a four step journey. This journey will take you through the various phases of discerning your call to become a Catholic and the living of that faith. Each person desiring to become a Catholic is accompanied by a sponsor. The sponsor may be chosen by the individual or provided by the parish. The sponsors offer support and guidance throughout the OCIA process and are encouraged to attend the weekly sessions.

The first step of your journey is to contact Father Charles Bober or Deacon Ralph Bachner at 724-625-1665.

When? Where? What?
OCIA begins in the Fall and runs through the Easter Vigil. Classes will be offered at Saint Kilian Campus Monday evenings at 6:30pm in the lower level of the Church. These weekly sessions generally last one hour. Sometimes participation will include attendance of the 10:00 am Mass where special Rites are celebrated with the gathered community of faith.

Each week the class has an opportunity to preview and discuss the scripture readings to be proclaimed at next Sunday's Mass. Also, a specific doctrine, belief or practice of the Catholic faith is presented. The setting is informal and allows for dialogue, discussion and questions as those needs arise.

The presentations are given by the OCIA team, composed of dedicated parishioners, including former OCIA candidates. Class size is small, providing a personal and intimate atmosphere for growing in faith. Prayer is an integral part of our journey.

We Make A Difference!
Saint Mark Parish impacts the lives of many people. We strive to be the presence of Jesus Christ by the example we set and by the way we worship God. We spread the Gospel message in our ministries in many ways. Our ministries include: Worship, Pastoral Care, Religious Education, Community Outreach, Social Service, Evangelization, and Health Care

As a member of our community, you will join many other members who do make a difference in the lives of their families, friends and neighbors.

We invite you to become part of our faith community!

2024-2025 Schedule         Email Deacon Ralph