OCIA
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is for those interested in exploring the Catholic faith and learning more about the Catholic Church as part of a discernment process concerned with the possibility of becoming a Catholic Christian. OCIA begins the first week in October, meeting weekly at STM.
Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first of three Sacraments to become full members of the Catholic Church. In Baptism, the baby, child or adult becomes a follower of Jesus and a member of the Catholic Church. The beautiful symbols of the rite: water, candle, oil and a white garment, all symbolize rebirth as a son or daughter of God. An older child or adult typically enters into the Church through a process called Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
First Communion
The holy Eucharist is the second of the three Sacraments of Initiation. For those who are adults, it is part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) process, for children it is part of Religious Education.
Confirmation
The Confirmation is the third of the three Sacraments of Initiation. For those who are adults, it is part of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) process, for children it is part of Religious Education.
Marriage
STM, as part of the Archdiocese of Hartford, offers three resources to every couple as part of their marriage preparation process. An Engaged Couples Conference will give you information and resources for building a strong and lasting relationship. FOCCUS: Facilitating Open Couple Communication, Understanding & Study is a computer-scored assessment that will help you see your strengths as well as areas where more conversation is required. Engaged Encounter Weekend is a further resource that many couples choose in addition to the requirements described above.
Reconciliation
Also known as Confession, or Penance, the Sacrament of Reconciliation celebrates the Church's mission of healing. Reconciliation centers on spiritual healing; it forgives our sins. The priest, acting in the person of Christ, hears our confession and provides our absolution from our sins in the name of Jesus. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated regularly at Saint Thomas More Chapel during the academic year and by appointment during the summer and breaks.
Religious Education
Children of Yale students, alumni and faculty are invited to grow in faith and love of Christ by participating in the faith formation programs offered in our city. Children ages 3 through 9 participate in a Catechesis of the Good Shepherd Program located at St. Joseph Church. Older children participate in discussion-based catechesis held at St. Mary Church. Current Yale students can serve as volunteers for these different programs, which run from October to May. Contact STM if you are a parent looking to register your child or if you are a current student interested in volunteering as a catechist for the academic year.
