OCIA Candidates for 2025
This year Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) has eight seekers who became catechumens and candidates on the first Sunday of Advent at our Rite of Acceptance. These people became engaged in our faith and are looking forward to continuing on this journey. The catechumens receive the sacraments of initiation, which are Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation, the candidates receive the Eucharist and/or Confirmation into our faith during the Easter Vigil.
We are blessed with devoted parishioners who serve as parish sponsors and team members. These people donate their time and knowledge of our faith to support these OCIA adults. This process is only possible with their enthusiasm and dedication to this ministry.
This year, at our parish ministry fair, we offered parishioners the opportunity to be a prayer warrior for one of our inquirers. We have parishioners who are praying for each individual catechumen and candidate. The prayers of these faith-filled people support these individuals as they continue their spiritual journey.
Last fall, Deacon Mike Maynard introduced the seekers to Adoration and Benediction in the St. Francis Chapel. He gave a short presentation on the meaning of the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and our role in this beautiful devotion. We had a brief Adoration and closed with Benediction. We thank Deacon Mike for his time and preparation for this prayerful learning experience.
Fr. Mark gave us a tour of our beautiful church, explaining the significance of Sacred Heart in the community, the history of our church, and a tutorial on the sacramentals that assist us with prayer and the liturgy. It was an enlightening evening and enhanced our knowledge of the Mass. Fr. Mark is a tremendous support of OCIA and we truly appreciate his involvement in our ministry.
In early spring, we are looking forward to our yearly retreat at the Benet House conducted by the OCIA team for the catechumens, candidates, and sponsors. This day is a wonderful experience that gives us a chance to pray and unite as a community in a peaceful and spiritual environment.
Our next rite at the beginning of Lent sends us to Peoria to participate in a prayer service with other OCIA communities throughout our diocese. Each of our catechumens and candidates will have the opportunity to meet Bishop Louis Tylka. He will send us forth with his blessing to continue on this journey of faith. This is the second step when our catechumens and candidates formally profess their intent to continue with this OCIA process.
Please keep the OCIA catechumens, candidates, sponsors, and team in your prayers. It is a rewarding journey for all of us, since we all grow in our love of the Lord through this experience.