With the help of the Capuchin order, our Cathedral Knights of Columbus have sponsored formational gatherings called Why Catholic? for several months. These gatherings have been for everybody (Catholic and non-Catholic alike) who have any questions about our Faith. It is very casual.
Now as a parish, we are preparing to begin a more structured gathering: the OCIA — the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults. OCIA is a place where adults who are curious about the Catholic faith, who have never been baptized, or who were baptized in another Christian tradition can come, ask questions, learn, and discover what it means to follow Jesus in the Catholic Church.
But here is where you come in.
Odds are, you already know someone who has been quietly wondering about faith. Maybe it is a neighbor, a friend, a relative, a co-worker, or someone who comes to Mass with you from time to time. Perhaps they have said, “I’ve always wondered what Catholics believe,” or “I’ve thought about becoming Catholic,” or maybe they simply seem to be searching for something more in life.
That person may be your invitation to evangelize.
Evangelization does not mean having all the answers or giving someone a theological lecture. Sometimes it is as simple as saying, “Have you ever thought about learning more about the Catholic faith? Our Cathedral has a wonderful OCIA program. Why don’t you come with me?”
And notice those last three words: come with me. People are much more likely to take a step when they know they don’t have to take it alone. Invite them and bring them to an OCIA gathering. Introduce them to someone. Sit beside them. Pray for them. And then let the Holy Spirit do the rest.
We should never be afraid to invite someone into a deeper relationship with Christ. We are not trying to “get more people into the Church.” We are inviting people to encounter Jesus, who loves them, has a place for them, and desires to draw them into the life of His Church. So, as we begin another year of OCIA, I ask you who are reading this to pray about one simple question: “Who is God putting in my path?” Maybe there is someone you should invite.
And if you are reading this and YOU have questions, YOU are searching, or YOU simply want to know more, please know that you are VERY welcome here. You do not have to have everything figured out. You do not have to know what you believe yet. Just come and explore. Email or call Catherine at rainville.catherine@gmail.com or 313-883-2863 to let her know you want to be on the contact list.
The door is open. Come and see.
And perhaps, through your invitation, someone else will discover that the door of the Church has been open for them all along!
Fr. J.J. Mech