Considering Catholicism
Curious About the Catholic Faith? You Are Welcome Here
Questions are a good place to begin. Whether you are thinking about becoming Catholic, returning after time away, preparing for a sacrament, or simply trying to understand what Catholics believe, we are glad you are here.
You do not need to know the right words, have everything figured out, or make a commitment before you reach out. Catholic faith is explored through conversation, prayer, worship, learning, and the ordinary life of a parish. We would be grateful to meet you and walk with you one step at a time.
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Start with a Question
Questions are a good place to begin. Whether you are thinking about becoming Catholic, returning after time away, preparing for a sacrament, or simply trying to understand what Catholics believe, we are glad you are here.
Contact our OCIA Coordinator by phone (303) 988-2222 or by email to begin the conversation.
There Is a Place to Start, Whatever Brings You Here
You may be drawn to the beauty of the Mass, the Eucharist, the lives of the saints, or the Church's long history. You may be marrying a Catholic, raising children with a Catholic spouse, or looking for a faith home after years away. Perhaps you are not sure what you believe yet, but would like an honest conversation. You are welcome to begin here. We will listen to your questions and help you find a next step that fits where you are.
Come and See
One simple way to explore Catholicism is to come pray with us. You are welcome at Mass, even if you are unfamiliar with the prayers and do not know when to sit, stand, or kneel. Feel free to participate as you are comfortable. During Communion, those who are not Catholic or are not prepared to receive Communion are welcome to remain in their pew or come forward with their arms crossed for a blessing. You might also spend a few quiet minutes in the church, join us for the Rosary, or come to Eucharistic Adoration. Adoration is quiet prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, the consecrated Eucharist. Sometimes prayer, silence, and the welcome of other people can say more than a first explanation ever could.
Ask a Real Question
Faith is personal, and many people carry questions that do not fit neatly into a form. You may want to ask about God, Jesus, the Mass, Mary, Confession, the Church's teachings, a difficult life situation, or what it would mean to become Catholic. You can start there.
Contacting us is a conversation, not a test or a promise. Michele Brewster, our OCIA Coordinator, can help you talk through your questions and decide what would be most helpful next.
When Pints with a Priest is scheduled, it is another relaxed way to meet people, enjoy a beverage, and bring your questions into the conversation. There are also many other ways to explore your questions both formally and informally.
Watch the parish bulletin and homepage for current details.
What is the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA)?
OCIA is the Church's path for adults who are exploring Catholicism or preparing to receive the sacraments. It is for adults who have not been baptized, baptized Christians who are considering full communion with the Catholic Church, and Catholics who were baptized but have not yet received Confirmation and the Eucharist.
OCIA is a patient process of inquiry, prayer, learning, and preparation. It gives you time to learn what the Church believes, ask honest questions, pray with the parish, and discern whether God may be calling you to take the next step. Reaching out to learn about OCIA does not mean you have already decided to become Catholic.
Catholic Faith Is Learned and Lived
Catholicism is more than information to master. At its heart is a relationship with Jesus Christ, nourished through Scripture, prayer, the sacraments, and the life of the Church.
At Mass, Catholics gather to hear God's word, pray together, and receive the Eucharist, also called Holy Communion. The Eucharist is at the heart of Catholic worship because we believe Christ truly gives himself to us there. Catholic life also takes shape in the ordinary practices of prayer, learning, caring for neighbors, and showing up for one another through every season of life.
You do not have to understand all of this at once. Start with what has stirred your curiosity, and let the next question lead you forward.
Questions People Often Ask
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No. You are welcome to attend Mass. We simply ask visitors who are not Catholic, or Catholics not prepared to receive, to refrain from receiving Holy Communion. You are still welcome to pray with us and take part in the rest of the Mass as you are comfortable.
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Your Baptism matters. We would be glad to talk with you about your background and how the Catholic Church may welcome you into full communion. OCIA is usually the path for this conversation and preparation.
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You are not alone, and it is not too late. Please reach out. We can help you understand the preparation that fits your situation.
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You are welcome to start with a conversation. There is no need to sort everything out before you contact us. We will listen with care and help you understand what the Church can offer and what your next step might be.
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That is okay. Come to Mass, spend time in prayer, read the parish bulletin, or explore Catholic resources at your own pace. Whenever you are ready, we will be here.
We Would Be Glad to Meet You
No question is too basic, and no one needs to arrive with all the answers. Come pray with us, begin with a question, or learn more about becoming Catholic. We are grateful you are considering this next step.