Becoming Catholic (OCIA)

FOR CURRENT OCIA MEMBERS, CLICK HERE

FOR THOSE INTERESTED IN LEARNING ABOUT THE CATHOLIC FAITH

INTERESTED?  Please contact the Fr. Thomas LaHood, Pastor and OCIA Director at tlahood@stmaryum.org or 301-627-3255.  

INFORMATION ON SUMMER OPEN HOUSES AND NEW OCIA SESSIONS 

LOCATION:  ST. MARY’S FAMILY LIFE CENTER
4610 LARGO ROAD (BEHIND ST. MARY’S SCHOOL)

• OCIA – What is it? Who is it for?

   

  OCIA is a journey in faith for: Individuals who would like to know more about the Roman Catholic Faith.

  It includes:

  • Non-Baptized Individuals who are at the “age of reason” (7 yrs or older) who are considering or who are seeking Baptism in the Catholic Church.
  • Individuals who have been baptized Non-Catholic who are considering or who are seeking full communion with the Catholic Church.
  • Baptized Catholics who are un-catechized and/or who are passed the age of receiving their sacraments of initiation – 1st Holy Communion and Confirmation – and the desire to receive them.
  • Coming Home Catholics: Baptized Catholics who have stopped practicing the Faith and wish to return.




• How Does OCIA Work?

  • Our journey in faith lasts a lifetime. OCIA is an on-going process within parish life.
  • Sessions are held on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 P.M. – 8:00 P.M. at the St. Mary’s Family Life Center hall (behind St. Mary’s School) at 4610 Largo Road, Upper Marlboro, MD. The sessions run from early September to late May.
  • If sessions have already begun, please contact Fr. LaHood for information on how to get started (301-627-3255 or at tlahood@stmaryum.org)




• What Can I Expect?

  The OCIA process will help you to know the Good News of the Gospel more fully, and to follow Jesus more closely in your daily life. You will be free to explore issues important to you and to decide for yourself if you are ready to commit yourself to Christianity in the Catholic Church.




• How Can I Participate?

  We welcome all to join us on the journey of growing closer to God. If you have questions or are interested in learning about the Catholic Faith and enrolling in RCIA, please contact the Fr. LaHood at tlahood@stmaryum.org or 301-627-3255.

  Download the OCIA Adult Inquirer Form Here

  Download the OCIC Inquirer Form Here

  Download the OCIC Parental Participation Form Here