Understanding the Sacraments of Initiation
As we will shortly begin preparing people who want to become Catholic, it might be useful to know a little about the OCIA process (formerly known as RCIA). This is the first of a series of informational articles about the Sacraments of Initiation and the timing of their reception. As we go through the many rites of the OCIA in the coming months, they will be explained here. Later, we will cover the Sacrament of Confirmation, including the recent history of its timing and its current status. SPOILER ALERT: Confirmation preparation for youth will begin next Fall.
Let’s begin by seeing where we are right now.
In the Beginning
If we took a show of hands, most of us would indicate that we have been Catholic our entire lives. For many, this is because our parents experienced a deep connection with God, His Son, and the faith community, just as their parents did before them. They were eager to continue the tradition of faith by bringing us to be baptized into that same community.
Through Baptism, original sin is washed away, and we receive the grace of new life in Christ, becoming part of His Body, the Church. Additionally, Baptism marks the beginning of a lifelong journey with Christ, empowering us to grow in faith and holiness.
As we reflect on our shared experiences, it’s important to recognize why the Catholic Church has maintained such a strong appeal across generations. The teachings of Jesus Christ, as passed down through the Church, offer a moral compass and a pathway to spiritual fulfillment. Catholics are drawn to the Church’s emphasis on the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, which is the real presence of Christ that nourishes and sustains our faith.
The Church’s emphasis on love, social justice, service to others, and the dignity of every human person resonates with those seeking to live a meaningful and compassionate life. Ultimately, people follow the Catholic faith as a way to experience God’s love, grow in holiness, and seek eternal life with Him.
If you have questions about any of these topics, I’d love to hear from you! debk@stasaginaw.org.