9149 Elys Ford Road · Fredericksburg, Virginia
Parish Office: (540) 785-5299
Office Mon–Fri 9:30 am–4:30 pm
Saint Patrick
Catholic Church
“The source of Christian joy is the certainty of being loved by God.”
— Pope Benedict XVI
You do not have to have every answer to begin. Whether you are discovering Christianity for the first time, coming from another Christian tradition, or returning to questions about faith, you are welcome to explore the Catholic Church at Saint Patrick.
Your questions, experiences, and hopes are an important part of that journey. Here, you can learn about Catholic beliefs, discover the meaning of the sacraments, and consider how a relationship with Jesus Christ can shape your everyday life.
Make room for prayer, conversation, and learning as you consider your next step. Through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), you can explore the faith alongside others and receive guidance as you discern your path. Start by contacting the parish, sharing your story, and asking how to join.
Whether you are ready to begin preparation or simply want to learn more, we look forward to welcoming you and walking with you.
EXPLORE THE CATHOLIC FAITH
What is OCIA?
The Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, formerly RCIA, is Saint Patrick’s path for adults exploring Catholicism and preparing for sacraments.
New to the Church?
OCIA welcomes non-Catholics considering entering the Church at the Easter Vigil. Bring your questions about belief, worship, and Catholic life.
Already Catholic?
Adults preparing for sacraments missed in childhood can also participate. Share your sacramental history with the parish.
Want to learn more?
The parish welcomes anyone interested in deepening their knowledge of the faith.
Order of Christian Initiation
OCIC/OCIT: Order of Christian Initiation for Children/Teens
The OCIC/Sacramental Prep Program is open to students in grades 3 through 8, and OCIT/Sacramental Prep Program is open to High School students who have not yet received any formal Religious Education and/or are in need of any of the following Sacraments: Baptism, First Penance, First Holy Communion or Confirmation.
OCIT/Sacramental Prep High School classes are held on Sundays at 9 am to September-May.
OCIC/Sacramental Prep Elementary School classes are held on Wednesday evenings from 6-7:30 pm September-May.
Preparation for the Sacraments is a two-year program. Students age 8 and older who have not been baptized participate in Order of Christian Initiation and will receive the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil Mass of the second year of education.
Students age 8 and older who are missing sacraments will participate in Sacramental Preparation for the sacrament/s they are missing. Please note: First Holy Communion & Confirmation require two years of preparation.
For more information and to register, please contact the Religious Education Office at 540-785-7857 or email religioused@saintpatrickparish.org
OCIA: Order of Christian Initiation for Adults
Are you or someone you know interested in becoming Catholic? Join other interested adults to explore the meaning of the Catholic faith and its significance for your everyday life. OCIA is an enriching, thought-provoking, and rewarding experience.
Order of Christian Initiation–OCIA (formerly RCIA) classes begin each September and meet weekly in the middle school.
These classes are primarily for non-Catholics who would like to learn about the Catholic faith with the intention of entering the Church at the Easter Vigil or for Catholics preparing for the sacraments they missed as a child. However, all who are interested in growing in their knowledge of the faith are welcome to attend.
Classes are held weekly on Monday evenings at 7:30 pm at St. Patrick in the middle beginning in September and continuing year-round. Those intending to enter the Church or to receive one of the sacraments at Easter must be committed to attending each weekly class.
If you or someone you know is interested, please contact the Parish Office 540-785-5299 or ocia@saintpatrickparish.org
TAKE THE FIRST STEP
Learn in Community.
Published parish schedule: Mondays at 7:30 p.m. in the middle school, beginning in September and continuing year-round. Confirm upcoming sessions with the office.
1. Start a conversation
Contact the OCIA team to introduce yourself and discuss where you are in your journey.
2. Join the classes
Explore Catholic faith and its place in everyday life. Weekly attendance is expected for those preparing for reception or sacraments at Easter.
3. Find your path
Ask the team how your baptism and previous preparation shape your next steps.
FOR FAMILIES
Children & Teens
OCIC serves grades 3–8; OCIT serves high school students needing religious education or sacraments. Preparation is a two-year program. For guidance and registration, contact Religious Education at (540) 785-7857 or religioused@saintpatrickparish.org.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN
A few helpful questions
Do I need to be certain?
Start by sharing your interest and questions. Ask the parish what participation involves before deciding on your next step.
What if I am baptized?
Tell the OCIA team about your baptism and Christian background so they can guide your preparation.
Can I attend if I’m just curious?
Yes. Saint Patrick welcomes anyone interested in learning more about the Catholic faith. You can bring your questions as you explore whether becoming Catholic is your next step.
What if I missed sacraments as a child?
OCIA also welcomes Catholic adults preparing for sacraments they did not receive in childhood. Contact the team to discuss your needs and preparation.
Can my child or teenager become Catholic?
The parish offers Christian initiation and sacramental preparation for children and teens. The Religious Education office can help your family find the appropriate program.
How long does preparation take?
Your path depends on your baptism, previous formation, and the sacraments you are preparing to receive. The OCIA team can explain the preparation and attendance expected for your situation.
Who should I contact to get started?
Email ocia@saintpatrickparish.org or call the Parish Office at (540) 785-5299. Share a little about yourself and ask about the next opportunity to join.
