Thank you for taking the time to continuously share your wisdom!

Over the past few years, we have noticed a new type of “Candidate”–one that only needs the Sacrament of Eucharist.  They have been baptized and confirmed at the same time (or shortly thereafter), and primarily in a Latin American country.  Unlike those individuals that are missing Confirmation who are not to be included in OCIA, this is different.  These individuals are unable to participate fully in the Liturgy of the Eucharist at Mass, and are usually uncatechized.  Therefore, we are treating them as “Candidates”.   I was hoping to see this addressed in the new OCIA text released for December 1, 2024, but this situation is not mentioned at all.  Did this get missed, or has this not been a big problem?  Do you have any direction for us in the parishes?  Thank you very much.  Be safe and be blessed.

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A: Chapter V of the OCIA treats baptized Catholics who received no further catechesis and hence lack both confirmation and first communion. You’re right that there is not a separate treatment of those who were also confirmed in infancy and lack only first communion.

If I had such individuals in my parish, I’d advise treating them as adult candidates for first communion. They would receive whatever catechesis is necessary to prepare for that sacrament. If they are willing to undergo a fuller presentation of the Catholic faith, then seize the opportunity. But they are entitled to the Eucharist after appropriate catechesis for it.