Questions & Apologetics

Eventually, maybe. We realize that many people are searching and need to know more about the Church before they make such a commitment. We also realize that Catholicism is not for everyone. We ask no firm commitment until the beginning of Lent.

By joining the OCIA process, we ask that you make a two-fold commitment -- to the process and having an open heart and mind.  Throughout the process, there are weekly classes, various rites (Church services/celebrations), and Mass attendance.  As such, we are asking you to commit to these regular meetings, which may mean giving up something for a time that may conflict with our meetings.  Know that the sacrifice would be for a limited time and will be worth the effort.

What personal information must I provide to the OCIA Team and the Church of the Resurrection?

We will need your religious background information and a copy of your baptismal record or certificate if it exists.  Finally, we will ask you questions about you -- who you are, where you are from, your interests, what brought you here.  These help us get to know you so we can truly help you through this process. In addition, we will need to thoroughly understand your marital history so we can determine if there is a need for an annulment or convalidation.

No! There is only one Baptism. Therefore as long as the baptism you received was in the correct formula then Candidates seeking full Communion within the Catholic Church will not be baptized again. They will make a Profession of Faith and receive the Sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation.

Please call the church where you were baptized, as nearly all churches archive their baptismal records. If the church no longer exists, or the record/certificate is irretrievable, then a copy of some kind of documentation of your baptism (i.e., a program from the baptism, pictures, a page from a family bible that shows the date and church of the baptism) will suffice.  If truly nothing exists, then a letter from a witness detailing the event will usually be accepted.

While we know that life circumstances can intrude during this process, you must try to be present for all classes and all scheduled activities. If, for some reason, you cannot be present, please get in touch with us before the class or activity.  We will make available the material you miss.