Our process for bringing children over the age of 7 into the Church is called the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA) adapted for children and youth. The process prepares children and teens for the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Communion, and Confirmation. Children and youth participating will need to begin by registering for one of our family ministry programs or be attending a Catholic School. Families will also participate in a number of events together in preparation of celebrating the Sacraments of Initiation.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the parish office at 616-392-6700 or Emily Alba via email at ealba@stfrancisholland.org for more information.
What is OCIA for Children?
The OCIA is a journey of conversion, learning, living the faith and growing closer to Jesus and his Church. The objective is to become a disciple of Jesus and gain skills on reading Scripture, praying, being of service, and become missionaries. This is a journey for the whole family, as the children are dependent on their parents or guardians and are strongly influenced by their social surroundings The Rite recognizes that this is a gradual process and for that reason, is to be extended over several years; before they receive the sacraments.
Godparents
Godparents play a vital role in the faith of a child. A godparent is a fully initiated Catholic who is in good standing with the church and is over the age of 16. The godparent(s) represents the Catholic Church at Baptism and serves as a role model throughout the child’s life by living a fully Christian life. For more information about selecting a godparent and/or the roles of godparents, please see the following links/articles:
Role of godparents:
Click here for a Discipleship (Faith Formation) overview
click here to register online
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