Each year on Holy Saturday during the Easter Vigil, thousands worldwide are baptized into the Catholic Church in the United States. Parishes welcome these new Catholics through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. Learn more about OCIA.

Sometimes an unbaptized person may wish to explore becoming Catholic. Every fall, a group of adults begin that process. This period is called the catechumenate, denoting instruction (from the Greek  κατηχέω or katēkhéō, meaning “sound through, instruct orally, catechize"). The person seeking baptism is called the catechumen, and the group of catechumens as whole is sometimes also referred to as the catechumenate. They undergo instruction, or catechesis, in preparation for Lent and the Easter Vigil where Baptism is celebrated.

Alternatively, a person already baptized in a Christian church may wish to become Catholic. A group similar to the catechumenate receives instruction, guidance, and support along this journey. Their reception into the Church usually also takes place at the Easter Vigil.

A third group of Catholics who were baptized as infants but did not receive catechesis receive Confirmation and/or the Eucharist after participation in a period of formation. This process of formation is completed with the reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and the Eucharist, often at the Easter Vigil or during the Easter Season.

If you think you fall into one of these groups and are interested in becoming Catholic, please email Deacon Pedro Rivera or contact the parish office.