ocia faq


While the call to conversion is one that lasts a lifetime, the process for becoming Catholic through the OCIA is usually less than a year, in most cases. The process begins in September and culminates with the Easter Vigil.

There is no charge and all materials are provided for you.
  • Those who have never been baptized as Christians.  
  • Those baptized in another Christian faith tradition who are now interested in the Catholic tradition.  
  • Those baptized in the Catholic tradition whose total formation has never been completed and are seeking to renew their life in the Church.

  1. Day and time for sessions varies from group to group. We strive to accommodate anyone who wants to become Catholic by working with family schedules. 
  2. Weekly meetings, lasting approximately one to one and one-half hours, take place in either the parish office in Coldwater or the Library at Mary Help of Christians, in Fort Recovery.
There will also be various rites which will be celebrated on some Sundays throughout the year.  It is also possible to make other arrangements for individuals who cannot meet at this time due to schedule. We don’t want anyone to miss out on this journey simply because of a scheduling conflict.

The weekly sessions cover a broad range of topics because the Catholic faith encompasses the whole fabric of our lives. Topics include (but not limited to):
- God
- The Trinity (Father, Son and Holy Spirit)
- The Person of Jesus Christ
- The Bible
- Human Nature
- The Church, Her Structure and Mission
- The Sacraments of the Church
- Prayer
- Worship and Liturgy
- Mary and the Saints
- Conscience and Moral Decision Making

There is no obligation to make any kind of commitment nor is there any pressure exerted on anyone to become a Catholic. If, after beginning the process, an individual decides to discontinue, we will be supportive and respectful of his/her decision.

Our hope is that through this process, you will gain a deeper understanding of Catholic beliefs and practices, while growing in your relationship with God.

If you decide you would like to further explore the Catholic faith through OCIA or you have questions or concerns, please contact Cindy Muhlenkamp at cmuhlenkamp.holycrossfop@gmail.com or by calling the Coldwater parish office 419-678-4802.  or Ginny Fortkamp at  gfortkamp.holycrossfop@gmail.com or call her at 419-852-8960

You may also fill out the online form and someone will be in touch with you to further answer your questions or discuss details of the process.