Becoming catholic (OCIA)

Who am I?

Who is God?

Where are you going?

How am I going to get there?

If you answered "yes" to any of the above questions, then OCIA might be for you. OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults) is the process by which someone becomes a full member of the Catholic Church by receiving the Sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion, and/or Confirmation.

In OCIA, we'll accompany you to grow in your relationship with Christ and His Church. A sponsor, normally another Ramapo student, will walk with you and pray for you as you prepare to receive the remainder of your Sacraments of Initiation. OCIA sessions typically happen once a week. We cover topics ranging from the kerygma (the core Gospel message) to the Trinity to the 10 Commandments. OCIA candidates are encouraged to be a more active member of Newman Catholic by attending Bible studies, coming to Newman Nights, and deepening one's relationship with the Lord in prayer.

Finally, for those who are called to full membership in the Church, the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist) are normally celebrated in the Easter Season.

OCIA classes are open to the entire Ramapo Newman Catholic community, whether or not they have received any or all of the Sacraments of Initiation.

For questions or more information, please contact campus minister David Donohoe at ddonohoe@ramapo.edu.