OCIA
How to become Catholic in Kansas City
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)
Many people today are asking, “How do I become Catholic?” Whether you’re entirely new to faith, new to the Kansas City area, or simply curious about the Catholic Church, St. Thomas More offers a warm, welcoming path for adults of all ages.
Whether you have never been baptized, are a baptized Christian from another faith tradition, or are a practicing Catholic who has not yet completed your Sacraments of Initiation (First Holy Communion or Confirmation), our Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) provides a step-by-step journey of discovery, genuine community, and deep spiritual growth.
What is OCIA?
Formally speaking, OCIA is the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (formerly known as RCIA). It is the beautiful, traditional process by which new members are brought into full communion and fully initiated into the life of the Catholic Church.
More than just a class, it is a journey of prayer, conversion, learning, and faith sharing. In addition to our regular weekly OCIA sessions, participants are warmly encouraged and invited to engage in our various faith, service, and outreach opportunities, becoming an active part of the vibrant community life here at St. Thomas More.
Ready to begin the journey?
You don't need to have everything figured out to take the first step. If you have questions or would like to learn more about upcoming sessions, please reach out to us. We would love to walk with you.
Who Can Join OCIA?
The OCIA process begins by building a strong, supportive community among those choosing this spiritual journey. No prior religious affiliation is required. St. Thomas More warmly welcomes:
The Unbaptized: Adults who have never received the Sacrament of Baptism.
Non-Catholic Christians: Individuals baptized in other Christian faith traditions who desire to become Catholic.
Baptized Catholics: Adults who have received Baptism but seek to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Holy Communion and/or Confirmation).
Note: Adults and high school students participate together in our OCIA program. Younger children seeking their sacraments will receive age-appropriate formation through our School of Religion (SOR) or St. Thomas More School.
Deepening Faith Through Scripture and Tradition
Our formation focuses on building and deepening a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and His Church. Jesus is "the Way, the Truth, and the Life," leading us to know God the Father through the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit. Together, we encounter God through His divine revelation offered in Holy Scripture and the rich Tradition of the Catholic Church—including our core beliefs, the liturgy, the sacraments, prayer, and moral teachings.
Stages and Rites of Initiation
The OCIA journey is marked by beautiful, time-honored steps and liturgical rites (rituals):
Inquiry & Catechumenate: Following an initial period of asking questions and learning, the Rite of Acceptance welcomes individuals into the learning community. This begins a time of growing and deepening one's daily encounter with Christ. Our OCIA team and personal sponsors journey alongside you, supporting your prayer life, participation at Mass, and integration into the parish community.
Election & Enlightenment: The Rite of Election marks a formal step closer to the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist), leading into a more intense time of spiritual reflection during the season of Lent.
The Sacraments: This holy preparation culminates at the beautiful Easter Vigil Mass. The unbaptized publicly profess their faith, are washed clean of sin in the baptismal waters, and are joined to Christ's Body. Those previously baptized in other Christian traditions make a profession of faith and are formally welcomed into full communion. They join the baptized Catholics seeking completion of their sacraments, and all are sealed with the Holy Spirit in Confirmation before gathering together around the Lord’s table for Holy Communion.
Community Support and Accompaniment
OCIA is fundamentally a journey of accompaniment and discernment. The entire parish family of St. Thomas More walks with you in prayer, alongside your personal sponsors and the OCIA team. We are here to help you discern your opportunities for spiritual growth and your readiness to receive the sacraments when the time is right.
Mystagogy and Ongoing Formation
Following the Easter Sacraments, a period called Mystagogy begins. This is a time of deep reflection on the mysteries of the sacraments you have received and a focus on how to live out your faith daily. At various points earlier in the journey, you may also gather at community weekend Masses and be dismissed after the homily for further, guided reflection on the Sunday Scriptures.
Flexible Timing and a Personalized Journey
Because faith is deeply personal, our program lasts as long as you need it to. There is no forced timeline; individuals are initiated into the Church when both they and the parish community discern they are spiritually ready.