The ancient and reliable process by which adults become Catholic is called the Baptismal Catechumenate, today commonly known as the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). Rooted in the practice of the earliest Christians, it is much more than a series of classes or requirements—it is a spiritual journey of conversion to Jesus Christ and life within His Church. Because faith is a living relationship, this journey unfolds over time. Just as a child is formed in the womb before birth, or a mighty oak first emerges from a small acorn, God patiently nurtures growth in the hearts of those who seek Him. The process includes several distinct stages, each marked by rich, beautiful, and inspiring rituals that celebrate the work of God's grace and invite deeper commitment to Christ.

No one makes this journey alone. The Church, as the Body of Christ, walks alongside those who are exploring the Catholic faith, offering prayer, encouragement, guidance, and friendship every step of the way. Sponsors, catechists, clergy, and fellow parishioners accompany seekers as they discern God's call and grow in faith. Because every person's story is unique, the journey is personal and shaped by each individual's readiness and spiritual growth. There is never pressure or judgment placed upon those who are considering the Catholic Church. Rather, our desire is simply to help people draw closer to the Lord, encounter His love and mercy, and discover the fullness of life He offers. Wherever you may be on your spiritual journey, we are ready to walk with you.

The process leads participants through four stages of formation and three major liturgical ritual celebrations. The process begins with a period of inquiry for those who have felt called to consider the Catholic faith. Here you will find an open space to ask questions about what Catholics believe while meeting others striving to live Gospel values. Know that the initial inquiry does not necessarily commit you to initiation.

STAGE ONE: 
The Period of Evangelization and Pre-catechumenate or Inquiry is the first stage of the journey.  It is a time to explore and question your faith, uncover the basic message of the Gospel and begin to discern how to live this in your life. It is a time of discovery with no fixed structure or duration. This is described as a time for inquiry and introduction to the gospel values; an opportunity for the beginnings of faith.
After a conversation with a priest or a parish, the person, known as an "inquirer," may seek acceptance into the Order of Catechumens, through the Rite for Entrance. During this Rite, the inquirer stands amidst the parish community and states that he or she wants to become a baptized member of the Catholic Church.  
 
STAGE TWO: 
The Period of the Catechumenate is a time to deepen your understanding of the Catholic faith and your relationship with Jesus. It is a time for suitable pastoral formation and guidance.  It can be thought of as an apprenticeship. At the heart of the Catechumenate period is conversion of heart, the conversion to Jesus Christ. Even before the Catechumens are baptized, they have a special relationship to the Church. 
This end of the period is marked by the Rite of Election. Typically, on the first Sunday of Lent, the Catechumens, their sponsors and families gather at the cathedral church. The Catechumens publicly express their desire for baptism to the diocesan bishop. Their names are recorded in a book and they are called the Elect.

STAGE THREE: 
The Period of Purification and Enlightenment occurs during the 40 days of Lent. It is a time for deeper prayer and reflection, and a time to develop a deeper relationship with Jesus. This stage is more intense in spiritual preparation, leading to the Celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation takes place during the Easter Vigil Liturgy on Holy Saturday when the Elect receives the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. Now the person is fully initiated into the Catholic Church.
     
STAGE FOUR: 
The Period of Mystagogy marks the time when the newly baptized, or neophytes, begin their lifelong commitment to living a Christian life. It marks a shift from learning about faith to living faith in everyday life in the world.

Every parish in the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City offers this spiritual formation journey for those seeking to learn more about the Catholic faith or become Catholic. If you would like to learn more, please contact your local parish (click here).