Welcome to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults - OCIA
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a process of initiation and conversion
given, at the Vatican level, to Roman Catholic Churches worldwide to provide a spiritual journey for seekers.
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For the seeker (Catechumen) it is a spiritual journey in preparation for the
Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist -- the Sacraments of Initiation.
For those baptized in other faith traditions (Candidates), the OCIA is a spiritual journey of full communion
with the Roman Catholic Church through preparation for the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.
During Lent the candidate prepares for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
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Our Sessions will begin on Tuesday, September 23, 2025
from 6:30pm - 8:00pm
at St. Edward Church (240 Tod Lane).
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If you have any questions, or would like more information, please contact Sister Regina at 330-744-5233
or email rrogers@youngstowndiocese.org.
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Youngstown City Regional RCIA
What is meant by the Youngstown City Regional RCIA?
(Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
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GLAD YOU ASKED THAT QUESTION!
The entire Diocese of Youngstown has been divided into Regions - for some years now. St. Patrick is in the Youngstown City Region with several other area parishes. Some of these parishes have come together - about 8 parishes to form the Youngstown City Regional RCIA in 2021. This is an optional decision for parishes in the Region.
Not every parish has RCIA participants every year. This year six persons were initiated into the Roman Catholic Church from the Youngstown City Regional RCIA. Are there other Regional RCIA sessions in the Diocese? YES!
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There are FOUR parts of the RCIA - called Periods:*
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1) EVANGELIZATION and INQUIRY - getting acquainted, parish Sunday Mass, parish activities, registering...
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2) CATECHUMENATE - doctrinal sessions
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3) PURIFICATION and ENLIGHTENMENT - Lent
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4) MYSTAGOGY Rite of Christian Initiation is at the EASTER VIGIL: Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. After Easter: reflection on the Sunday Scripture Readings during Easter time.
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*Established by Vatican II Council, Rome 1970 for Roman Catholic Churches Worldwide
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