An Open Invitation to Explore

Have you ever wondered what Catholics really believe? Maybe you’re curious about the faith but aren’t sure where to start asking questions. Or perhaps you’re already a Christian from another tradition, considering what it might mean to become Catholic. Whatever brings you here, you’re welcome.

OCIA—the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults—is our parish’s way of creating a safe space for spiritual exploration. Until recently, this program was called RCIA, but the heart of what we do remains unchanged: we gather adults who want to understand the Catholic faith better, whether they’re seriously considering joining the Church or simply seeking honest answers to their questions.

At Prince of Peace, we believe everyone deserves a place to explore life’s biggest questions without pressure or judgment. Our OCIA program welcomes people from all backgrounds: lifelong Catholics looking to deepen their faith, Christians from other denominations, people of different faiths, and those who aren’t sure what they believe at all.

Here’s what we want you to know upfront: joining our program doesn’t commit you to becoming Catholic. This is simply where you can find thoughtful, authentic answers about the Catholic faith in an atmosphere of genuine friendship.

Who Should Consider OCIA?

OCIA meets people wherever they are in their spiritual journey. You might be:

• Unbaptized and curious about Christianity through the Catholic Church
• Already baptized in another Christian tradition and considering Catholicism
• A Catholic who never received First Communion or Confirmation
• A practicing Catholic wanting to refresh your faith while supporting others
• Someone with questions about what Catholics actually believe

The Church recognizes different stages of spiritual seeking, and we have liturgical, intellectual, and pastoral support designed for each one. Whether you’re taking your first steps toward faith or you’ve been walking with Christ for years, there’s a place for you in our community.

What Happens in OCIA?

When: Wednesday evenings, 7-8p in the Parish Gym
When it runs: Mid-to-late August through Easter

Our weekly gatherings center on the fundamental teachings of the Catholic Church. We’ll explore Scripture and Sacred Tradition, dive into the seven sacraments, discuss moral theology, and learn about the communion of saints. These aren’t lectures—they’re conversations where questions are not just welcome but encouraged.

Our teaching team includes:

• Sean Chapman, our theologian-in-residence and theology teacher at Saint Joseph’s Catholic High School
• Our parish priests, deacons, and pastoral associates
• Guest speakers like Karl Orbon, head of theology at Saint Joseph’s in Greenville

The Journey: Understanding the Process

For those who do choose to become Catholic, OCIA follows the Church’s ancient process of initiation, which unfolds in distinct phases:

The Catechumenate is the initial period of learning and reflection. This stage concludes with the Rite of Election, a beautiful diocesan celebration where individuals publicly choose to embrace the Christian way of life.

The Period of Purification and Enlightenment follows, marked by special rites designed to prepare hearts and minds for the Easter celebration.

Mystagogy begins after receiving the sacraments of initiation. This phase recognizes that becoming Catholic isn’t a finish line—it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey of growing closer to Christ through the life of the Church.

Throughout this entire process, remember that the Church walks alongside you without imposing pressure. We’re here to support your relationship with Christ, even if you ultimately discern that God isn’t calling you to join the Catholic Church.

A Personal, Unhurried Approach

We don’t believe in spiritual assembly lines. Every person’s journey is unique, and we honor that by taking time to really listen to your story, your questions, and your concerns. Our staff is here to accompany you and your family as you discern whether God is calling you toward full communion with the Catholic Church.

Some years we have people who’ve been thinking about this decision for decades; others join us having just started asking questions about faith. Both approaches are perfectly valid, and both are welcome here.

Community That Changes Lives

Each Easter Vigil, we celebrate with a diverse group of people receiving their sacraments of initiation. Their stories are as varied as they are beautiful—spouses supporting each other’s spiritual growth, adult children finally taking steps their parents hoped they’d take, individuals who’ve felt God calling them from unexpected places.

This diversity makes our OCIA sessions rich with different perspectives and experiences. Many practicing Catholics join us each year, and we’re consistently moved by how many describe the experience as life-changing. There’s something powerful about a community united around the shared desire to know God’s will more clearly.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re curious about the Catholic Church or simply have questions about faith, we’d love to hear from you. There’s no commitment required to begin exploring—just genuine interest and an open heart.

Contact us:

• Email: ocia@princeofpeacetaylors.org
• Call the parish office to speak with our pastoral staff

No matter where you find yourself on your spiritual journey—whether you’re taking first steps or you’ve been walking with faith for years—you have a place in our community. The Church exists to serve and accompany people seeking truth, and we’re genuinely excited to learn your story and discover what God is doing in your life.

If you’ve been wrestling with questions about faith, wondering what Catholics really believe, or simply aren’t sure what you believe yourself, we invite you to accept Jesus’s own words: “Come and see.”

Your questions are welcome here. Your doubts are welcome here. You are welcome here.