Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC)

For Children over the age of 7 requesting Baptism

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The OCIC (Order of Christian Initiation for Children) is the process for children over the age of reason, usually seven and above, who have not yet been baptized to enter the Catholic Church. The curriculum goal is to provide a comprehensive foundation in the Catholic faith and to prepare the child to receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. It would also prepare the family to support their child in the Catholic Church.

 

Key curriculum areas

• Scripture: Learning about the stories of God's people, including key Old and New Testament narratives.

• Catechism: Understanding fundamental Catholic beliefs.

• Prayer and Liturgy: Exploring different forms of prayer and the importance and meaning of participating in the Mass and other liturgical celebrations.

• Sacraments: Learning about the Seven Sacraments, particularly focusing on the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) and Reconciliation.

• Moral Life: Guidance on living a life founded on Christian morality, including the Ten Commandments and the teachings of Jesus.

• Church and Community: Understanding the role of the Church in God's plan of salvation and the importance of being part of the faith community.

• Saints and Marian Devotion: Learning about the lives of Saints and developing a devotion to the Blessed Mother. 

 

Structure and duration

• The OCIC program would last for at least two years.

  • Year One: Participate in Families Forming Disciples or Edge, depending on the age of the child.

  • Year Two: Participate in Families Forming Disciples or Edge in addition to OCIC formation.

• In the second year, the child and parent or sponsor would attend OCIC to prepare specifically to receive the sacraments of Initiation and Rites of the OCIC. 

• Parents are expected to be actively involved, reinforcing what the child is learning and creating a faith-filled home environment.

• Children and their families participate in liturgical rites, such as the Rite of Acceptance, which signify their progression through the process.

• Children would receive all three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil in the second year of the program.

• Following the reception of the sacraments, there is a period of mystagogy, where the children reflect on their experience of being initiated into the Church and continue to deepen their understanding of their faith. 

 

In essence, the OCIC curriculum for children over seven preparing for Baptism aims to provide a solid foundation in the Catholic faith, supported within the family, helping them understand what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ and to embrace their place within the Catholic community. As part of this Catholic Community, the children who go through OCIC could continue their formation with their peers and could participate in the Confirmation program and Mass as peer leaders.  (Lectors, Altar Servers, Readers, small group leaders, and such).

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To learn more email Elizabeth Piper, Director of Faith Formation, at epiper@olachurch.org.