Becoming Catholic
Whether you are exploring the faith, preparing for baptism, or coming home to the Church, you are welcome here. The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the way adults become Catholic, and you can take it one step at a time.
Inquiry Form: Adult Inquirer Information Form OCIA
Saint Susanna in Plainfield and Mary, Queen of Peace in Danville share one OCIA program. Members of either parish, and anyone in the area, are welcome.
Who is OCIA for?
- Adults who have never been baptized and want to become Christian and Catholic.
- Adults baptized in another Christian church who want to become Catholic.
- Adults baptized Catholic who have not yet received First Communion or Confirmation.
Just curious? That is a good place to start. Come with your questions; there is no pressure to decide anything.
When and where
- Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:00 pm
- Beginning October 14, 2026, and continuing through the spring
- Saint Susanna Catholic Church
- 1210 E. Main Street, Plainfield
Each evening includes a short presentation, small-group conversation, and prayer. Together we explore Scripture, the sacraments, the Mass, prayer, Mary and the saints, and what it means to live as a Catholic.
The journey
OCIA unfolds in four periods. Each step forward is marked by a rite celebrated with the parish community.
-
Inquiry
Getting started
A time to ask questions, get to know Jesus, and meet the parish community.
Concludes with the Rite of Acceptance or the Rite of Welcoming
-
Catechumenate
Fall through winter
Deeper study of Catholic teaching and Scripture, growing in prayer, and taking part in Sunday Mass.
Concludes with the Rite of Election or the Call to Continuing Conversion, celebrated with the Archbishop
-
Purification and Enlightenment
Lent
A season of prayer and reflection to prepare your heart for the sacraments.
Concludes at the Easter Vigil, where you receive the sacraments at Saint Susanna or Mary, Queen of Peace and are welcomed into the Church
-
Mystagogy
Easter to Pentecost
Reflecting on the sacraments you have received and finding your place in parish life.
Every person’s journey is different. We will talk with you about the timing that fits.
You won’t walk alone
Each participant is accompanied by a sponsor, or a godparent for those being baptized. This is a practicing Catholic who prays with you, attends key moments with you, and helps you feel at home in the parish. You can invite someone you know, or we will gladly connect you with a parishioner.
Common questions
Who can be a sponsor or godparent?
A sponsor or godparent must:
- Be a fully initiated Catholic (baptized, confirmed, and has received the Eucharist)
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be actively practicing the faith, including regular Mass attendance
- Be living a life in keeping with the faith, including a marriage recognized by the Church, if married
- Not be the parent of the person they are sponsoring
Sponsors should complete the Godparent/Sponsor Information Form. Those from another parish will also need a Certificate to Serve as a Godparent signed by their pastor.
Parishioners who feel called to serve as a sponsor are encouraged to contact the Director of Faith Formation.
I’m Catholic and practicing, but I was never confirmed.
You can prepare by joining select OCIA classes. Please contact Janet Abdoulaye, Director of Faith Formation, at [email protected] to find out which sessions to attend.
What if I or my spouse were married before?
This is very common, and it doesn’t need to stop you from beginning. Please mention it on the inquiry form, and we will walk with you through any next steps.
Is there a program for children and teens?
Yes. The Order of Christian Initiation of Children (OCIC) is for young people ages 7 to 18 who have not been baptized, or who were baptized but have not received First Communion. Enrollment happens alongside our religious education programs.
Ready to take a first step?
Fill out the short inquiry form and we will be in touch to get to know you and answer your questions.
Questions? Contact Janet Abdoulaye, Director of Faith Formation
[email protected] | 317-839-3333
