Ask
Start with your questions.
You may be curious about the Mass, Mary, Confession, the Eucharist, Scripture, Church authority, or what Catholics actually believe. Those questions are welcome.
Becoming Catholic
You Are Invited Home.
Whether you are new to Christianity, returning to the Catholic faith, baptized in another Christian tradition, or simply asking honest questions, the parish is ready to walk with you.
Questions Are Welcome
Becoming Catholic begins with questions, prayer, and a relationship with the parish. You do not need to know everything before reaching out.
Learn
Learn the faith with the Church.
OCIA helps adults learn the Catholic faith, understand the Sacraments, and discern whether God is calling them into full communion with the Church.
Pray
Come close to Christ.
The goal is not merely information. The goal is conversion: to know Jesus Christ, receive His grace, and live as a faithful Catholic in His Church.
Learn at Your Own Pace
Go deeper into the Mass, Scripture, and Catholic teaching.
These trusted Catholic resources can help you learn while you discern, prepare for OCIA, return to the Church, or simply grow in faith.
Mass 101
Learn every part of the Mass and what it means.
Fr. Mike Schmitz gives a detailed 39-minute walkthrough of the Catholic Mass in this presentation from Ascension.
Order of Christian Initiation of Adults
OCIA is the usual path for adults who are discerning entrance into the Catholic Church or completing their Sacraments of Initiation.
You have never been baptized.
The Church will help you prepare for Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion.
You were baptized in another Christian tradition.
The parish can help you learn Catholic teaching and prepare to be received into full communion.
You were baptized Catholic but have not received all your Sacraments.
The parish can help you prepare for Confession, Confirmation, and Holy Communion as needed.
You are returning after time away.
Welcome home. The parish office can help you find the right next step, including Confession, Mass, formation, or a conversation with Father.
Current OCIA Information
OCIA serves all three parish communities.
OCIA is for adults inquiring into the Catholic faith, preparing to enter the Church, or completing the Sacraments of Initiation.
Regular meeting time: Wednesdays during the school year at 7:00 PM
Host location: St. Ann in Elgin
Program contact: Tom Biles
St. Ann is the host parish, but OCIA is a tri-parish program for inquirers and candidates from St. Ann, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and Mother of Sorrows.
Next Step
Reach out. We will help you begin.
You do not need a perfect explanation, a polished story, or complete certainty. Just contact the parish office and say you are interested in becoming Catholic, returning to the Church, or learning more.