Welcome to Our Faith Family
We are delighted to welcome you and your family as you begin this faith-filled journey through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults adapted for Children (OCIA). Thank you for saying “yes” to this opportunity to deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ and grow in faith together.
At Holy Family, we believe that parents are the first and most important teachers of the faith. Our role is to support, encourage, and walk alongside you as your children continue to discover God’s love and their place within the Catholic community. We look forward to sharing this journey with you and helping your family grow together in faith, prayer, and discipleship.
Our process includes four important components:
1. Family Faith Sharing
Family Faith Sharing sessions are interactive gatherings where children, teens, and parents learn and grow together. Sessions are held on selected Friday evenings from 6:00–7:00 p.m.
- Year One: Families meet once each month.
- Year Two: Families meet twice each month.
These gatherings provide opportunities for faith formation, prayer, discussion, and community building.
2. Sunday Dismissal Prayer Time
We encourage all participants to attend the 5:30 p.m. Sunday Mass. During Mass, children and teens will be dismissed for a special time of prayer, reflection, and faith sharing focused on the Sunday Scriptures. This experience helps them connect God’s Word to their daily lives while preparing for full participation in the Church’s sacramental life.
3. OCIA Rites and Rituals
Throughout the year, children and teens preparing to receive the sacraments will participate in several meaningful rites that mark important milestones on their faith journey, including:
- Rite of Welcome
- Rite of Sending (prior to Lent)
- Scrutinies (celebrated on the Third, Fourth, and Fifth Sundays of Lent)
- Easter Vigil (the evening before Easter)
These beautiful celebrations help participants and the parish community recognize and celebrate God’s work in their lives.
4. Ongoing Faith Formation
In addition to the OCIA process, we encourage all children and teens to participate in age-appropriate faith formation programs:
- High School Students: Teen Confirmation Program, directed by Ray Hernandez
- Middle School Students: CrossWalk Middle School Ministry, directed by Ray Hernandez
- Elementary School Students: Religious Education Program, directed by Erika Giordano
We are grateful that you have chosen to share this journey with us. Please know that you are not walking alone. Our parish community is here to support, encourage, and pray for you every step of the way.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to growing in faith together and welcoming your family more deeply into the life of the Church.
