Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
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O.C.I.A. - formerly R.C.I.A.
In November 2021, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approved a new English translation of what was formerly known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, or RCIA, also announcing a change in its name to the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults or OCIA. This translation reflects greater fidelity to the original Latin.
The change in its name also reflects a deeper understanding that rites are part of an order or a continuous process of spiritual formation rather than fixed checkpoints. In this case, individuals seeking to become Catholic will go through several rites as part of an ongoing journey of discipleship. They will ultimately culminate in the final rite, often at the Easter Vigil, when they are officially welcomed into the Catholic Church by receiving Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation. Still, their journey will continue throughout their lives.
A Spanish version was also passed and will keep the acronym RICA, for "Ritual de Iniciacion Cristiana de Adultos".
The new edition will feature some other changes. Check back for further information as more becomes available!
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United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) Resources
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Easter Vigil Rites Adjusted
Emphasis will be more on the validity of baptisms received in other Christian denominations. Texts for infant baptisms at the Easter Vigil will also be included, a feature not widely practiced previously.
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Distinctions in the Initiation ProcessPreviously, individuals in RCIA were usually referred to as "candidates." Now, there will be a greater distinction depending on where the candidate is in the initiation process. They will be called "inquirer," "catechumen," and "elect," respectively.
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The process of becoming Catholic should not be rushed and can be entered at any time. While most converts enter the Church at the Easter Vigil, this new structure acknowledges that converts could be baptized or welcomed into the Church at any point in the year, even taking multiple years before making the final decision.
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Change in Categorization
The new revision includes four groups of those petitioning for full acceptance into the Church:
1. Catechumens (unbaptized adults)
2. Unbaptized Infants
3. Baptized non-Catholic Christians
4. Baptized Catholics in need of Confirmation
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