Order of Christian Initiation (OCIA)

The University of the Incarnate Word is committed to connecting our students with Jesus Christ through the following:

• spiritual guidance
• faith formation
• sacramental preparation
• and vocational discernment

We do this by connecting young adults to the Church through outreach, formation of the faith community and pastoral care. It is through the University's Mission and the mission of the Church that we support the formation of Christians to educate and develop leaders. Through our Faith Formation programs, we connect young adults with a peer community.

University Mission and Ministry at UIW works in concert with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) pastoral plans for the following:

• Ministry with Young Adults "Sons and Daughters of the Light,"
• Campus Ministry "Empowered by the Spirit"
• "National Study on Catholic Campus Ministry" and the 2018 "V National Encuentro."

Order of Christian Initiation of Adults and Confirmation Preparation

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), previously known as RCIA, is for anyone who is not currently Catholic. OCIA is a series of classes to explore more about Catholic beliefs. Upon the completion of the first half of the class, individuals may choose to continue to the sacramental portion of the class. During the sacramental portion of the class, individuals prepare for baptism (if unbaptized), Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation. This class is open to current UIW students, faculty and staff. Persons under the age of 18 are encouraged to receive their sacraments through their home parish. Students preparing for Confirmation must also freely choose to be confirmed, attend Mass regularly and practice the precepts of the faith.