Full course description
Partner dioceses receive discounted courses. This link provides a list of partner dioceses and discount codes to use when registering.
This course provides an in-depth study of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), exploring its ritual texts and rites. The OCIA is the process through which individuals over the age of seven are initiated into the Church, following a four-stage journey that culminates in the Easter Vigil and the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist).
Participants will examine the four stages of formation—Pre-Catechumenate, Catechumenate, Sacramental Celebration, and Mystagogy—and reflect on effective ways to implement the initiation process within a parish setting. Special attention will be given to catechesis with baptized adults and children.
Please Note:
A copy of The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is required for this course.
Course Content
Unit 1: Overview of the OCIA
Unit 2:Evangelization/Precatechumenate and Entrance into the Catechumenate
Unit 3: The Catechumenate
Unit 4: The Rite of Enrollment, Enlightenment, and Purification
Unit 5: Initiation and Mystagogy
Unit 6: Implementing the OCIA with Baptized Christians and Children
Course Format
- Five weeks in duration; first week for orientation.
- Up to 20 students in each course.
- Weekly assigned readings.
- Supplemental readings are provided to encourage further exploration; internet links are provided for all readings.
- Written assignments (200-250) required.
- Facilitator-moderated weekly Zoom sessions with participants.
Participation Requirements
- View course videos and read the OCIA text for each unit.
- Read assigned texts; compile notes, questions, and comments for class discussions.
- Answer weekly discussion questions.
- Respond to weekly unit assignments.
- Attend weekly Zoom for each unit. If you cannot attend, you can still meet the participation requirements.
- Complete the course evaluation.
Time Expectations
3 to 5 hours per week, depending on your learning style and schedule.
Course Certificate
An electronic certificate of completion awarding 35 contact hours will be available in course when completing all course requirements.
Area: Catechesis/Liturgy
Course Begins: June 16, 2025