My name is Tony Marincovich, and I serve as the OCIA Coordinator at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church.

Ten years ago, I sat where many of you may be today—full of questions, curiosity, and a desire to know God more deeply. Through OCIA I discovered not only the teachings of the Catholic Church, but a family and a home.

If you’re wondering whether this journey is for you, I’d simply like to invite you to take one more step.

Come and see.

We’ll be honored to walk with you.

The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) is the Catholic Church’s process of welcoming adults into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through prayer, learning, conversation, and participation in the life of the Church.

Some people come seeking Baptism.

Others wish to receive First Communion or Confirmation.

Many are already baptized Christians who feel called to explore the Catholic faith.

Still others are lifelong Catholics returning after years away.

No matter where you begin, OCIA is a journey of discovery—not merely a class.

Yes.

If you’re curious about the Catholic faith, you are welcome here.

Whether you’ve never been baptized, have attended another Christian church, are returning to the Catholic faith after many years away, or simply want to learn more, OCIA is for you.

Wonderful!

If you’ve already been baptized in another Christian tradition, your baptism is recognized by the Catholic Church when it has been celebrated with water and in the name of the Holy Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit).

You’ll still participate in OCIA alongside everyone else. While each person’s journey is unique, we all walk together toward a deeper relationship with Christ and His Church.

Yes. You are welcome.

Divorce does not prevent you from beginning the OCIA journey.

Every person’s story is different, and the Church desires to walk with you in compassion, truth, and hope.

If there are questions about your particular situation, we’ll gladly help you understand the next steps.

Absolutely.

We often refer to OCIA as a “class” for simplicity, but it is much more than that.

It is a journey of faith.

A conversation.

A place where questions are encouraged.

You don’t need to know anything before you come.

In fact…

Questions are one of the reasons we’re here.

Each Sunday includes prayer, conversation, presentations on the Catholic faith, and opportunities to ask questions.

While we have topics planned throughout the year, every group of inquirers is unique because every person brings his/her own experiences and questions.

We don’t simply teach lessons.

We walk together.

We meet every Sunday morning (except the Sunday between Christmas and New Year’s).

While we understand that work, family, and life’s responsibilities can sometimes affect attendance, every session is an important part of the journey, and we’ll gladly work with you whenever challenges arise.

Most participants are welcomed into full communion with the Catholic Church during the Easter Season.

Some people need a little more time.

That’s perfectly okay.

Everyone’s journey is unique, and we’ll walk with you every step of the way.

Almost everyone is a little nervous the first time.

That’s perfectly normal.

Come have a cup of coffee.

Meet some friendly people.

Take your time.

There is no pressure.

We simply invite you to come and see.

Absolutely!

You are always welcome to join us for Mass at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church.

Many people begin their journey simply by attending Mass before ever coming to an OCIA gathering.

There is no expectation that you know what to do or understand everything you see. Simply come, observe, listen, and allow yourself to experience the beauty of Catholic worship.

While Holy Communion is reserved for Catholics who are properly prepared to receive the Eucharist, we warmly invite you to participate in the prayers and experience the peace of being with our parish family.

If you have questions afterward, we’ll be delighted to visit with you.

OCIA Timeline

Come and See

Weekly Gatherings

Lenten Rites

Easter Vigil

Mystagogy

Lifelong Faith

Class Information

Beginning Sunday, August 9, 2026

Sundays 9:15 AM – 10:45 AM

Conference Room next to the Parish Office

Everyone is Welcome.

Coffee is always available.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Join us this Sunday.

Or…

Call or email Tony.

No preregistration is required.

Just come.

Contact Information

Tony Marincovich

OCIA Coordinator

Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church

📞 (863) 660-0020

✉️ MarincovichTony@gmail.com

We Pray for You

Whether you decide to join us this Sunday…

next month…

or next year…

please know this:

You are always welcome at Mary Help of Christians Catholic Church.

We will be praying that God continues to guide you on your journey.