Order of Christian Initiation Adapted for Children (OCIC- for ages 7-18)

 

What is OCIC? 

 

This Order of Christian Initiation is intended for children, not been baptized as infants or who are baptized but have not received any formal catechesis, who have attained the use of reason (age 7 +) and are of catechetical age. It is also for children who are baptized in the Catholic faith but were never prepared for Reconciliation, Eucharist, or Confirmation. The program starts in the Fall.

 

The children seek Christian Initiation either at the direction of their parents or guardians or, with parental permissions, on their own initiative. Such children are capable of receiving and nurturing a personal faith and or recognizing an obligation in conscience. But they cannot yet be treated as adults because, at this stage of their lives, they are dependent on their parents or guardians and are still strongly influenced by their companions and their social surroundings. Therefore, the role of parents and guardians is critical in their faith development. 

 

What is required of the child in OCIC? 

 

The expectation is that the child and his parents will attend Mass on a weekly basis.

 

The child is expected to actively participate in the parish OCIC classes in conjunction with attending religious education classes through St. Joe’s or St. John’s Religious Education programs. Parents are expected to attend Adult Formation classes for catechesis.

 

All children must have a godmother, godfather, or sponsor who is an active member of the Catholic Church, either at the Cathedral or another parish. The godparent or sponsor must be at least 16 years old, confirmed in the Catholic faith, and present at the Easter Vigil. A letter of good standing from the Catholic parish where the individual(s) are registered is needed. If the family is unable to find a sponsor for the child, we will help find one for you. 

 

When will the children receive the sacraments? 

All children who are ready will receive the sacraments at the Easter Vigil the Saturday night before Easter Sunday. Those who have not been baptized receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Those who have already been baptized in another Christian denomination (the validity of their baptism must be proven) enter the Catholic Church by making a profession of faith and receiving the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation. They will receive the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession/Penance) before Easter Vigil. 

 

If your child has been baptized Catholic or in another Christian denomination, please email a copy of their baptismal certificate to arianac@boisecathedral.org to fully register your child(ren).