Welcome! The parish family of Our Lady of Grace is excited that you are considering becoming Catholic or completing your journey of Initiation. We hope that this page will answer many of your questions.  The parish community will be happy to answer any questions, address any concerns, and assist you throughout this journey. Please do not hesitate to contact us at the parish office, 724-838-9480. We are eager to help you!

What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the process that is used to assist people on their journey into full communion with the Catholic Church. The focus of RCIA is to help form persons in the teachings, beliefs, and practices of the Church, while at the same time furthering the spiritual development of the person.

Who is OCIA for?
OCIA is for those who have never been baptized, those who have been baptized in another Christian tradition, and those adult Catholics who have been away from the Church since a young age  and desire to complete the Sacraments of Initiation (Confirmation and/or Eucharist).

What are the expectations of a person in OCIA?
All persons in OCIA are encouraged to join the parish community at Sunday Mass. While there are occasional modifications to the process, the norm is weekly formation sessions led by members of the OCIA team. The desire of this time of preparation is conversion through a change of heart and a deepening of your relationship with Jesus Christ.

When and where do the OCIA sessions occur?
Beginning in the middle of September through the Easter season, OCIA sessions regularly occur on Sunday mornings in the parish hall from 8:30 a.m.-10:15 a.m.

Your faith journey, which has already begun, will continue throughout your life.  This journey of conversion is a time for you to grow in awareness of your relationship with God and the Catholic Church. If God is calling you to begin OCIA or ask more questions about this process, please contact the parish office.