To be Christ to Everyone
To see Christ in Everyone
What is OCIC?
Order of Christian Initiation of Children (OCIC) is open to all children between the ages of 7-15 years, unbaptized or baptized. These classes are designed to educate children in the Catholic faith and prepare them for the sacraments of Baptism, Communion, and Confirmation to be received at the Easter Vigil. Whether your family is just entering the Church, returning to the practice of the Catholic faith, or delayed your child’s sacramental preparation, all are welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Class Schedule:
For Children in our School and in our Family Catechesis program, classes will be given from their third grade up.
What ages participate in OCIC?
OCIC is a program for children aged seven or older who have not been baptized, have not received First Communion, or are baptized in another Christian denomination. It is also for older children, even high school students through age 15, who are baptized in the Catholic faith but were never prepared for Reconciliation, and Eucharist.
What is required of a child in OCIC?
The expectation is that the child and his or her parent(s) will attend Mass on a weekly basis. There must be a founded hope that the child will be raised Catholic.
The child is also expected to actively participate in the monthly OCIC classes. The parent(s) expected to attend the monthly OCIC classes as well.
Can more than one child from the same family be enrolled in OCIC?
Yes! In many cases when a family is joining the Church together, there is more than one child involved. It is highly encouraged to enroll all children at one time.
What is covered in OCIC classes?
The program provides a comprehensive review of the essentials and key teachings of the Catholic faith.
When will the children receive the sacraments?
All children who are ready will receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil the Saturday night before Easter Sunday.
Those who are unbaptized (Catechumens) will be baptized, receive Communion, at the Easter Vigil. Those who have already been baptized either Catholic or in another Christian denomination (Candidates) enter the Catholic Church by making a profession of Faith and receive First Holy Communion.
For any questions, please call Linda Monistere at 985-651-1072 or email at [email protected]