01
Encounter Christ
OCIA is not merely a class. It is an invitation to meet Jesus Christ — in Scripture, in prayer, in the sacraments, and in the life of the Church.
About OCIA
Discover the Catholic faith.
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is the Church's ancient path of welcome — still living, still patient, still meant for people who are searching.
The heart of it
A formation, not a class you survive.
OCIA accompanies adults who wish to know Jesus Christ in the Catholic Church. It is ordered toward conversion — a turning of the heart — and toward the sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.
At St. Mary, Star of the Sea in Astoria — under the care of Fr. William D. Oruko, AJ — this path is meant to feel human. You will gather, pray, listen, and ask. You will be given time. No one is expected to arrive already certain.
The Church has walked this road with inquirers for centuries. What is new is only this: your own life, your own questions, and the particular community that will receive you.
The path
Enter more deeply into the mystery.
Four movements of formation — not a curriculum to consume, but a way of approaching God.
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Discover the Faith
Walk through the heart of Catholic belief: the Creed, the sacraments, the moral life, and the prayer of the Church — with time to listen and learn.
03
Ask Questions
Curiosity is welcome here. Bring your doubts, your history, and the questions you have never had a place to ask. There is no exam at the door.
04
Enter Into the Life of the Church
Those who discern to continue are prepared to enter more fully into the sacramental life of the Church — not as spectators, but as members of the Body of Christ.
Who is welcome
If you are asking the question, you already belong in the room.
01
The unbaptized
Adults who have never been baptized and wish to explore becoming Catholic.
02
Baptized Christians
Those baptized in another Christian tradition who are considering full communion with the Catholic Church.
03
Catholic adults
Catholics who wish to complete Confirmation or the Eucharist, or simply to be formed more deeply.
Quaerite et invenietis
You need not arrive certain.
Begin a conversation. Bring the questions you actually have.
Or write to us on the contact page.