CATHEDRAL OF ST. JOSEPH
BECOMING CATHOLIC
Explore if OCIA (formerly RCIA) is right for you
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JOINING OCIA
Considering joining the Catholic Church?
Sign up below for updates on our next Open House and OCIA classes.
RESOURCES
Discover ‘10 Things Everyone Should Know Before Converting to Catholicism’ along with other helpful materials:
IS THIS RIGHT FOR YOU?
Have you felt that nudge to consider that --maybe, just maybe-- you might want to become Catholic?
Though perhaps, in trying to find answers, you’re still feeling unsure or confused.
...Catholics do what?!
How do you actually know if Catholicism is the right faith for you?“FIND WHAT WE FOUND”
From recent converts at the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Sioux Falls:
Former Protestant converts after cancer diagnosis.
Former Lutheran converts because of college assignment.
THE PROCESS
Starting out with OCIA (formerly RCIA) is the official process for becoming Catholic. It's is all about getting down to the nitty-gritty of what being Catholic means, asking those tough questions, and experiencing all the pieces coming together!
Step 1
Reach out to us and express your interest in exploring Catholicism.
Step 2
Get registered for the next RCIA/OCIA class.
Step 3
Discern if becoming Catholic is the right step for you at this time.
STEP 4
BECOMING CATHOLIC
You made your decision. You're prepared. Now you will be confirmed at the Easter Vigil Mass!
JOIN OTHERS LOOKING FOR ANSWERS.
One of our favorite things about these events: you realize there are other people searching just like you. Come find your community of fellow searchers.
CONTACT US:
FAQ
How committed do I have to be to begin the OCIA process?
You need only be interested in exploring the possibility of becoming Catholic. There is no minimum degree of commitment required simply to begin the process. We welcome you to come with your doubts or questions, and to share in conversation about what it means to live the Christian life in the Catholic tradition.
What if I start OCIA and then later feel unsure... May I step away for a time or even leave the process altogether?
Feeling unsure at times is natural. After all, moving in the direction of joining a particular faith community is a significant step. It is always a good idea to speak with one of our catechists (teachers) to understand the source of your doubt. If you remain uncertain and feel that now is not the right time to become Catholic, you are free to leave at any step in the OCIA process. If you ever decide to explore Catholicism again, you will always be welcomed back.
How may I learn more before coming to an Inquiry Session?
You may call the Cathedral of St. Joseph Parish Office at (605) 336-7390 or e-mail OCIA/RCIA Director Jeff Heron at [email protected]. Jeff will be glad to talk to you about any question you may have.
I have XYZ circumstance... May I talk with someone about it?
Yes, absolutely. Each journey to Catholicism is unique. You'll have time to meet one-on-one with one of our volunteers who will first and foremost just listen to your story. Then, he or she will be able to advise you of what your custom "conversion roadmap" would look like based on your unique circumstances.
Oh, and we've seen it all. Don't hesitate to come because your past is too messy. So are ours. You'll fit right in!"RCIA GAVE ME AMAZING FAITH FORMATION."
"For me, being able to go to a place where I could learn more about the Catholic faith, and to be somewhere where I could relate to others during conversion was comforting. RCIA gave me amazing faith formation that I am able to pass on to my children.
RCIA is more than just learning the Catholic faith, it helps you to understand and apply it in everyday life!"
- Megan S.
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