Becoming Catholic

How does our parish attract inquirers each year who consider becoming Catholic?

The short answer is you! When any parish has many inquirers year after year, it is the fruit of the Holy Spirit as parish members open their hearts to welcome others.

Members of a welcoming and evangelizing community take seriously their call to share the Divine message of salvation. It happens in parish families, in the workplace, in gatherings with friends and neighbors, and in daily contacts. Give thanks to God as he continuously strengthens each of us who seek to do his will in offering a gentle, humble, and clear welcome to the Catholic faith. “Go out into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.” (Mark 16:15)

What is Becoming Catholic?

Holy Family Cathedral’s program for the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is Becoming Catholic. This process of OCIA was established for the universal Church for individuals to become Catholic and receive the sacraments of initiation — Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist. This initiation process also involves a parish community experiencing a renewal in faith as it prepares and welcomes new members into the Church. The Order speaks of conversion as a “spiritual journey.” Centered on fostering a deep relationship with Jesus and the Church he founded, this journey takes place through distinct stages over a period of time suitable to bring about a thorough catechesis, significant experience of the parish community, and commitment to the liturgical and moral life of the Catholic faithful.

The OCIA process is a restoration of the ancient catechumenate, arising within the first three centuries following the era of the apostles. It was the early Church’s way of Christianizing the pagan Roman Empire. The Second Vatican Council called for the restoration and use of this venerable and powerful method of initiation for the worldwide Church.

When does Becoming Catholic meet?

Becoming Catholic meets on Wednesday evenings beginning May 21.

Email Gail Hobbs, ministry leader, at becomingcatholic@tulsacathedral.com for information about the 2024-2025 OCIA series.

Summer 2025 Schedule

May 21	What is Christianity? What is the Gospel?
May 28	What is Scripture? What is Tradition?
June 4	Who is Jesus and why did He die?
June 11	Discipleship to Jesus, Part 1: Beatitude, Love of God and Neighbor
June 18	Discipleship to Jesus, Part 2: Holiness and the Spiritual Battle
June 25	Sacraments, Part 1: Introduction
July 2	Catch-up / Q&A / Testimony
July 9	Sacraments, Part 2: Baptism, Confirmation, Confession
July 16	Sacraments, Part 3: The Eucharist
July 23	Facing Objections, Part 1: The Pope and Magisterium
July 30	Facing Objections, Part 2: Purgatory, Indulgences, Saints
August 6	Facing Objections, Part 3: Mary Mother of God
August 13	Facing Objections, Part 4: Faith, Works, Grace & Merit
August 20	Church History
August 24	Come into the Church!

The newly baptized wear white robes symbolizing the purity of their souls. Photo: Hollie Stokes

Looking for additional resources in your journey to Becoming Catholic? Check these out: