Welcome to our Order of Christian Initiation for Children (OCIC) program! Rooted in the rich tradition of the Catholic Church, our program is designed for children fourth grade and older who have not yet been baptized or who are seeking to complete their Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Through prayer, learning, and community, we guide children and their families on a meaningful journey of faith, helping them to grow in their relationship with Christ and become active members of the Church. We invite you to explore this sacred path with us. OCIC follows a similar model to OCIA (Adults) but uses materials appropriate for grades 4-12.
Easter Vigil 2026
Saturday, April 4
St. John Church
Saturday, April 4
St. John Church
Period of Inquiry
This period focuses on evangelization and initial exploration of the Catholic faith. It's a time for individuals to learn about Jesus Christ, consider their relationship with him, and express interest in the Catholic Church.
Kick-Off Meeting
Thursday, September 25, 2025
7-8:30pm | St. John Church
Rite of Entrance Rehearsal
Thursday, November 20, 2025
7-8:30pm | St. John Church
Sponsors and Godparents
This period focuses on evangelization and initial exploration of the Catholic faith. It's a time for individuals to learn about Jesus Christ, consider their relationship with him, and express interest in the Catholic Church.
Kick-Off Meeting
Thursday, September 25, 2025
7-8:30pm | St. John Church
Rite of Entrance Rehearsal
Thursday, November 20, 2025
7-8:30pm | St. John Church
Sponsors and Godparents
Catechumenate
This period of formation and instruction for individuals seeking to become members of the Christian Church through baptism. It's a structured process of spiritual and doctrinal preparation.
Rite of Entrance
Sunday, November 30, 2025
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Retreat
Saturday, February 7, 2026
1-6:30pm | St. Michael Church
Includes 5:30pm Mass
Ash Wednesday
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
7pm | St. John
Sponsor and Godparents
Rite of Sending Rehearsal
This period of formation and instruction for individuals seeking to become members of the Christian Church through baptism. It's a structured process of spiritual and doctrinal preparation.
Rite of Entrance
Sunday, November 30, 2025
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Retreat
Saturday, February 7, 2026
1-6:30pm | St. Michael Church
Includes 5:30pm Mass
Ash Wednesday
Wednesday, February 18, 2026
7pm | St. John
Sponsor and Godparents
Rite of Sending Rehearsal
Purification & Enlightenment
This period is a time of reflection and examination of one's life, culminating in the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.
Rite of Sending
Sunday, February 22, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Rite of Election
Sunday, February 22, 2026
3pm | Immaculate Conception, Dayton
First Scrutiny
Sunday, March 8, 2026
8am Mass | St. Michael Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Second Scrutiny
Sunday, March 15, 2026
10am Mass | St. Gabriel Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Third Scrutiny
Sunday, March 22, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Palm Sunday
Sunday, March 29, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Easter Vigil Rehearsal
Saturday, April 4, 2026
10am | Morning Prayer & Rehearsal
Sponsor and Godparents
Easter Vigil
Saturday, April 4, 2026
8:15pm | Arrival
9pm | Easter Vigil Mass
Sponsor and Godparents
Mystagogy
Thursday, April 9, 2026
7-8:30pm | St. John Spirit House
This period is a time of reflection and examination of one's life, culminating in the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist) at the Easter Vigil.
Rite of Sending
Sunday, February 22, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Rite of Election
Sunday, February 22, 2026
3pm | Immaculate Conception, Dayton
First Scrutiny
Sunday, March 8, 2026
8am Mass | St. Michael Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Second Scrutiny
Sunday, March 15, 2026
10am Mass | St. Gabriel Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Third Scrutiny
Sunday, March 22, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Palm Sunday
Sunday, March 29, 2026
11am Mass | St. John Church
Sponsor and Godparents
Easter Vigil Rehearsal
Saturday, April 4, 2026
10am | Morning Prayer & Rehearsal
Sponsor and Godparents
Easter Vigil
Saturday, April 4, 2026
8:15pm | Arrival
9pm | Easter Vigil Mass
Sponsor and Godparents
Mystagogy
Thursday, April 9, 2026
7-8:30pm | St. John Spirit House
What is OCIC?
OCIC stands for Order of Christian Initiation of Children. It’s based on the same process adults go through to become Catholic, called OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). In OCIC, kids in grades 4–12 meet with parish leaders to learn more about the Catholic faith and prepare to receive their sacraments. We use materials and discussions that are just right for their age group, and everything leads up to the big celebration at Easter when they officially become full members of the Church.
Who should sign up for OCIC?
OCIC is for two main groups of kids and teens:
Candidates – These are children in 4th grade or older who were baptized (either Catholic or in another Christian church) but haven’t received their First Communion or Confirmation yet.
Catechumens – These are children in 4th grade or older who haven’t been baptized at all and are preparing to receive all three sacraments: Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation.
If your child is younger than 4th grade but unbaptized, feel free to contact us to discern the right path of initiation for them.
What are the Sacraments of Initiation?
In the Catholic Church, there are seven sacraments, but three are all about starting your journey of faith—these are called the Sacraments of Initiation:
Baptism – A symbolic washing with water that marks your official entry into the Church.
First Communion – Receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus through the Eucharist for the first time.
Confirmation – A special anointing with oil that seals you with the Holy Spirit and completes your initiation.
Most Catholic kids receive these at different stages—baptism as a baby, First Communion around 2nd grade, and Confirmation in middle school. But in OCIC, we celebrate all the needed sacraments at once, at the Easter Vigil. If your child has already been baptized, they’ll just receive Communion and Confirmation.
When do kids receive their sacraments in OCIC?
Everyone in OCIC (and OCIA) receives their sacraments together at the Easter Vigil Mass, which takes place the night before Easter Sunday.
What is the Easter Vigil?
The Easter Vigil is the most important Mass of the year. It’s held on Holy Saturday night, and it’s a beautiful, powerful celebration where the Church welcomes new members through Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion. It’s a longer Mass (about three hours) but full of meaning, light, music, and community support.
What should kids wear for the Easter Vigil?
There’s no strict dress code—just dress respectfully and nicely, like you would for a holiday or special event. If your culture has a traditional outfit for special religious moments, we encourage your child to wear it! Catechumens will wear a purple robe during baptism and change into a white robe afterward, which symbolizes new life in Christ. Be sure to bring clothes they don’t mind getting wet, plus a dry change for afterward.
Can my child just do regular First Communion prep?
If your child is in 4th grade or older, they’ll need to go through OCIC, not the 2nd-grade First Communion program. The Church believes that by this age, children are ready to understand and receive both First Communion and Confirmation together. There are exceptions only for kids with specific emotional or developmental needs. We know it can feel tough if a younger sibling is going through First Communion separately, but this is part of the Church’s teaching on age-appropriate sacramental readiness.
My child was baptized in another Christian church. Do they need to be baptized again?
In most cases, no. The Catholic Church recognizes baptisms from most Christian traditions (like Protestant, non-denominational, or Orthodox churches), as long as the baptism was done with water and in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Just provide a certificate or some proof of baptism, and they won’t need to be baptized again.
How often does OCIC meet?
We keep the schedule manageable for busy families. In the fall and winter, OCIC only meets a few times, including a one-day retreat in February. During Lent (the 40 days before Easter), we meet almost every Sunday morning during Mass to continue preparing for the big day.
Will my high school student be in class with 4th-graders? Will my 4th-grader be in class with high-schoolers?
Nope! We do our best to separate lessons by age group, depending on how many participants we have. That way, the content is always age-appropriate and relatable for everyone.
What do the lessons look like?
Lessons are short, simple, and built around discussion, not lectures. We’ll provide a small textbook that everyone follows. Younger kids might have more hands-on activities. Teens will have more mature discussion topics. No tests, essays, or homework—just reading the material and showing up ready to participate.
What if my child changes their mind about the sacraments?
That’s okay. OCIC is designed for kids who are old enough to start making some of their own decisions about faith. Doubts and questions are part of the journey! If your child isn’t ready, they can always step back and return to OCIC later—no pressure to finish everything in one year. We’re here to support them, and our youth ministers are happy to talk one-on-one if needed.
What is my role as a parent or guardian?
Your role is huge! Kids learn faith best from the people closest to them. We ask parents to attend Mass regularly with your child (every Sunday or Saturday evening), read the lesson materials together and have faith-filled conversations at home. You don’t have to have all the answers—just be open and engaged. Your example makes a lasting impact. Please note: OCIA classes for adults are held on Thursday nights from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at St. John Church, if you are on a spiritual journey as well. Adults preparing to join the Church are expected to attend class regularly and participate in Sunday Mass. Learn more at here.
Does my child need a godparent or sponsor?
Yes! If your child is being baptized, they’ll need a godparent. If they’re already baptized, they’ll need a sponsor. This person must be a practicing Catholic over the age of 16 who has received all Sacraments of Initiation and cannot be the child’s legal guardian.
Who do I contact to get started/how do I register?
Contact us using the form below to be put into contact with our OCIC team. Before the program starts on September 25, every family will meet to talk through the process and make sure your child’s needs are supported.
OCIC stands for Order of Christian Initiation of Children. It’s based on the same process adults go through to become Catholic, called OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults). In OCIC, kids in grades 4–12 meet with parish leaders to learn more about the Catholic faith and prepare to receive their sacraments. We use materials and discussions that are just right for their age group, and everything leads up to the big celebration at Easter when they officially become full members of the Church.
Who should sign up for OCIC?
OCIC is for two main groups of kids and teens:
Candidates – These are children in 4th grade or older who were baptized (either Catholic or in another Christian church) but haven’t received their First Communion or Confirmation yet.
Catechumens – These are children in 4th grade or older who haven’t been baptized at all and are preparing to receive all three sacraments: Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation.
If your child is younger than 4th grade but unbaptized, feel free to contact us to discern the right path of initiation for them.
What are the Sacraments of Initiation?
In the Catholic Church, there are seven sacraments, but three are all about starting your journey of faith—these are called the Sacraments of Initiation:
Baptism – A symbolic washing with water that marks your official entry into the Church.
First Communion – Receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus through the Eucharist for the first time.
Confirmation – A special anointing with oil that seals you with the Holy Spirit and completes your initiation.
Most Catholic kids receive these at different stages—baptism as a baby, First Communion around 2nd grade, and Confirmation in middle school. But in OCIC, we celebrate all the needed sacraments at once, at the Easter Vigil. If your child has already been baptized, they’ll just receive Communion and Confirmation.
When do kids receive their sacraments in OCIC?
Everyone in OCIC (and OCIA) receives their sacraments together at the Easter Vigil Mass, which takes place the night before Easter Sunday.
What is the Easter Vigil?
The Easter Vigil is the most important Mass of the year. It’s held on Holy Saturday night, and it’s a beautiful, powerful celebration where the Church welcomes new members through Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion. It’s a longer Mass (about three hours) but full of meaning, light, music, and community support.
What should kids wear for the Easter Vigil?
There’s no strict dress code—just dress respectfully and nicely, like you would for a holiday or special event. If your culture has a traditional outfit for special religious moments, we encourage your child to wear it! Catechumens will wear a purple robe during baptism and change into a white robe afterward, which symbolizes new life in Christ. Be sure to bring clothes they don’t mind getting wet, plus a dry change for afterward.
Can my child just do regular First Communion prep?
If your child is in 4th grade or older, they’ll need to go through OCIC, not the 2nd-grade First Communion program. The Church believes that by this age, children are ready to understand and receive both First Communion and Confirmation together. There are exceptions only for kids with specific emotional or developmental needs. We know it can feel tough if a younger sibling is going through First Communion separately, but this is part of the Church’s teaching on age-appropriate sacramental readiness.
My child was baptized in another Christian church. Do they need to be baptized again?
In most cases, no. The Catholic Church recognizes baptisms from most Christian traditions (like Protestant, non-denominational, or Orthodox churches), as long as the baptism was done with water and in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Just provide a certificate or some proof of baptism, and they won’t need to be baptized again.
How often does OCIC meet?
We keep the schedule manageable for busy families. In the fall and winter, OCIC only meets a few times, including a one-day retreat in February. During Lent (the 40 days before Easter), we meet almost every Sunday morning during Mass to continue preparing for the big day.
Will my high school student be in class with 4th-graders? Will my 4th-grader be in class with high-schoolers?
Nope! We do our best to separate lessons by age group, depending on how many participants we have. That way, the content is always age-appropriate and relatable for everyone.
What do the lessons look like?
Lessons are short, simple, and built around discussion, not lectures. We’ll provide a small textbook that everyone follows. Younger kids might have more hands-on activities. Teens will have more mature discussion topics. No tests, essays, or homework—just reading the material and showing up ready to participate.
What if my child changes their mind about the sacraments?
That’s okay. OCIC is designed for kids who are old enough to start making some of their own decisions about faith. Doubts and questions are part of the journey! If your child isn’t ready, they can always step back and return to OCIC later—no pressure to finish everything in one year. We’re here to support them, and our youth ministers are happy to talk one-on-one if needed.
What is my role as a parent or guardian?
Your role is huge! Kids learn faith best from the people closest to them. We ask parents to attend Mass regularly with your child (every Sunday or Saturday evening), read the lesson materials together and have faith-filled conversations at home. You don’t have to have all the answers—just be open and engaged. Your example makes a lasting impact. Please note: OCIA classes for adults are held on Thursday nights from 7:00–8:30 p.m. at St. John Church, if you are on a spiritual journey as well. Adults preparing to join the Church are expected to attend class regularly and participate in Sunday Mass. Learn more at here.
Does my child need a godparent or sponsor?
Yes! If your child is being baptized, they’ll need a godparent. If they’re already baptized, they’ll need a sponsor. This person must be a practicing Catholic over the age of 16 who has received all Sacraments of Initiation and cannot be the child’s legal guardian.
Who do I contact to get started/how do I register?
Contact us using the form below to be put into contact with our OCIC team. Before the program starts on September 25, every family will meet to talk through the process and make sure your child’s needs are supported.
A COMMUNITY OF CHRIST'S FOLLOWERS. |