Curious About Our Catholic Faith?
Interested in learning more about our Roman Catholic faith? Ever thought about becoming Catholic? Wonder what the steps are to becoming a Catholic? Then OCIA may be right for you! The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which adults come into full communion with the Catholic Church. Please contact Father Rick Nagel 812-265-4166 ext 241 or fathernagel@popeace.org
What does the white robe symbolize?
The newly baptized are dressed in a white garment after baptism to symbolize that they are washed clean of sin and that they are called to continue to walk in this newness of life.
What does the candle symbolize?
A small candle is lit from the Easter candle and given to the newly baptized as a reminder to them always to walk as children of the Light and to be the light of Christ to the world.
What does the Sacred Chrism symbolize?
Why was this ancient rite restored?
It was restored in the Church to highlight the fact that the newly baptized are received into a community of faith, which is challenged to realize that they too have become different because of this new life in the community.
Is there a ceremony or preparation for Catholics who never or seldom have practiced the faith?
For Catholics who have been Baptized, Confirmed and made First Communion but then drifted from the faith, the way they return is through the Sacrament of Penance. Catholics who were baptized but never received Confirmation and/or Eucharist also participate in a period of formation. This process of formation is completed with the reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Communion often at the Easter Vigil or during the Easter Season.
What is the role of a godparent for an adult being baptized?
Prior to the Rite of Election, the catechumen may choose one or two godparents, who will accompany the Catechumen on the day of Election, at the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation, and during the Period of Mystagogy. They are called to show the Catechumens good example of the Christian life, sustain them in moments of hesitancy and anxiety, bear witness, and guide their progress in the baptismal life.
OCIA Calender Unofficial 2026-27
The Calendar will be submitted at a later date.