Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)

Do you feel a deep conviction that the Lord is calling you to become Catholic? Or perhaps you're just curious and would like to know more? The Cathedral OCIA would be happy to accompany you on your journey of faith. You are welcome to stop by the Catholic Question Booth after 10am Mass on Sunday mornings, or to reach out to formally join the classes.

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is for adults who are baptized but not practicing the Catholic faith, or for those interested in becoming Catholic. 

The class meets on a weekly basis to learn about Catholic doctrine and practices. There are catechists (teachers) and sponsors to assist the people on their journey.

There are four components to OCIA:

• Instruction
• Community
• Developing a prayer life
• Service to the Church

A candidate is a person who has been baptized in another denomination. We believe in ONE Baptism, so this person is not baptized again. A catechumen is a person who has never been baptized, and therefore will be baptized during the Easter Vigil Mass. Candidates and catechumens will be confirmed and receive First Eucharist at the time of their entrance into the Church.

For more information about OCIA, please email [email protected]. 

To make an appointment with a priest to discuss further, please contact the rectory office at 314-373-8202. 

To register for the class: https://cathedralstl.org/ocia-registration

To see archived classes: https://cathedralstl.org/ocia-2025-2026