Q: Can a parish choose a ‘name’ to refer to their OCIA process?
I think the intent is that in conversation or on the church website, saying Order of Christian Initiation for Adults or “OCIA” does not have a meaning to someone new to the faith, but having a name, for example, like “Encountering Christ” or “Becoming Catholic” or something on that plan – that hints to the beauty and depth and fruit of the process, might be more helpful. It would seem that doing so could create confusion between parishes, as one might call it this and another that…even though well intended and meant to better explain the beauty of what happens in the OCIA process.
If you could give your thoughts and guidance on this it would be helpful to share with others who have asked this question in our ministry.
Thank you for your most informative and educational blog.
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A: I agree that this is a problem. In my parish we call it OCIA, but I include a weekly announcement giving the day when “those interested in joining the church” may come. You’re right that it would be a different problem if parishes all started calling it by different names. It could be called “Adult Initiation Formation,” which is accurate and perhaps more helpful. Whatever you do, make it clear what it’s for.
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