The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is now called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). During their November 2021 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meetings, the U.S. Bishops changed the name of the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) to Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). It is the process established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation - Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church. The Order speaks of conversion as a "spiritual journey." Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church He founded. This journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, giving individuals a significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful. The OCIA process are rites such as the Rite of Entrance to the Catechumenate and the Rite of Sending, which both occur at the parish level, and the Rite of Election, which occurs at the cathedral with the bishop. Next is a series of rites called scrutinies, and later the Rites of Initiation.
Who is OCIA for?