MARCH 2025 UPDATE: The Rite of Election closes the Period of the Catechumenate. This rite normally coincides with the 1st Sunday of Lent. At this rite, upon the testimony of sponsors and catechists and the catechumens’ affirmation of their intention to join the Church, the Church makes its “election” of these catechumens to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. In the presence of the bishop (or his delegate), they inscribe their names in the Book of the Elect at the cathedral as a pledge of fidelity. Now the catechumens are called “the elect” or “the illuminandi” (“those who will be enlightened”). They now begin a Period of Purification and Enlightenment—the final, intense preparation for the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation. On the Sundays in Lent, three scrutinies (rites for self-searching and repentance) and the presentations of the Creed and Lord’s Prayer take place. This period concludes with the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation at the Easter Vigil.
Are YOU interested in finding out about the Catholic Church? Were you Baptized as a baby but never learned anything about your faith. If you would like to learn more, OCIA is the process to find out more about the Catholic faith and to become Catholic through the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation). If you are a member of another Christian denomination, this is also the process to help you learn more about the Catholic faith and become Catholic.
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is a process of faith discovery and formation for adults thinking about joining the Catholic Church. Inquiry sessions begin in September with informal weekly meetings involving no commitment. Participants learn about Catholic life and teachings, explore the riches of the Bible, and experience the life and worship of our parish community. The entire parish becomes part of the process through their prayers and encouragement, and through the witness of their Christian lives. Full membership into the Church takes place with great joy at the Easter Vigil Mass. Those who have been baptized will receive their Confirmation at a special Mass with the Bishop in the spring. If you are interested in participating in the OCIA, you can download an OCIA intake form from the documents section of this page. If you fill a form out and email it, we will contact you with more information.
Alternatively, for more information, please contact:
[email protected]
603-893-8661
If you have received Baptism and only need confirmation, there is a shorter process that you will follow. See the adult confirmation section below.
CLICK HERE: OCIA Registration Form
People who have received Baptism and First Communion but who still need the Sacrament of Confirmation are able to participate in a four week adult confirmation course with the diocese. You can fill out a confirmation registration form by clicking the link below.
Alternatively, for more information, please contact us via email at: [email protected] or by phone at 603-893-8661 or consult the diocesan webpage.