People holding hands during a church service

Sacramental Preparation

Sacramental Preparation, called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), enables an individual to grow in faith while becoming a full member of the Catholic Church. University Ministry offers a full range of Sacramental Preparation programs, including Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

  • Sacramental Preparation, called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), enables an individual to grow in faith while becoming a full member of the Catholic Church. University Ministry offers a full range of Sacramental Preparation programs, including Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.Those desiring Baptism, as well as Christians from other denominations who are already baptized but who wish to become members of the Catholic Church, are invited to participate in OCIA.
  • Those baptized Catholic, but uneducated in the faith are also invited to OCIA in order to prepare to receive the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Confirmation.
  • Those active in their faith and who wish to prepare for Confirmation are invited to participate in the Confirmation program offered in the Spring.

The OCIA and Confirmation programs are designed not only to prepare participants for the Sacraments, but to help them develop a deeper relationship with God. The process includes retreats, service projects, and opportunities for one-on-one discernment meetings with the OCIA Director. Each participant is asked to select a sponsor who provides guidance and support during the preparation process as well as the encouragement to continue to grow in faith afterward.

The OCIA process and Confirmation Faith Formation program at USD are specifically designed for USD students, faculty and staff.

If you are interested in any of the above options, please contact Nicolas Estrada, nicolasestrada@sandiego.edu, 619-260-5903.