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OCIA

- What is OCIA?
  
  The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process through which adults first inquire about and then when they are ready, become members of the Catholic Church by receiving Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil. The process generally takes one year.
  
  Contact tcuocia@gmail.com to sign up or learn more about the process.
- who attends ocia?
  
  The TCU community
  Those who have never been baptized
  Those who have been baptized into another religion
  Baptized Catholics with little to no faith formation and/or who have not completed the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation
- When
  
  Classes are Sundays from 2:00PM - 3:00PM during the academic year.
- where
  
  OCIA classes are held at the TCU Catholic Newman Center. 2704 W Berry St, Fort Worth, TX 76109
meet our team
- chaplain - Fr. Wallis
  
  Hello! I'm Fr. Wallis, the Chaplain & Director here at TCU Catholic and a proud Horned Frog alumnus. It's a joy and a privilege to serve the community that helped shape my own faith journey. This marks my fifth year with TCU Catholic, and each year continues to be a blessing as I walk with students in their spiritual lives. Whether you're new to campus or a familiar face, know that you're always welcome here.
- Campus Minister - Catherine Ochoa
  
  Hello! My name is Catherine Ochoa, and I serve as the Campus Minister here at TCU Catholic. I'm originally from Cleveland, Ohio, but now call Fort Worth home with my husband, Jorge. Being part of OCIA has been one of the greatest blessings in my life. I feel deeply honored and humbled to walk alongside students in their faith journeys—especially those in the OCIA program. Whether it's sharing a conversation over coffee or praying together in the Adoration chapel, I love witnessing how God is actively working in each person's life. Every student is uniquely loved by God, and it’s a privilege to see how He meets each one exactly where they are.
  If you're considering joining our OCIA class or simply want to learn more about the Catholic Church—this is your sign. We’d love to have you join us!
student volunteers
- Valeria Medrano
  
  Hi! I'm Valeria Medrano, an interior design major with a minor in architectural lighting. I recently went through OCIA and was baptized - such a beautiful and life-changing experience! When i am not studying or at the Newman, praising Jesus or hanging out with friends, I am usually out on a run or listening to a music/podcast! Now, I'm stepping into a new role where I'll be guiding future OCIA students and praying for them as they begin their own journeys. I can't wait to experience this with you guys!!
- Javier Avila
  
  My Name is Javier Avila, and I'm a junior at TCU studying Supply Chain and Business Information Systems. I'm honored to help serve at the OCIA program because I personally went through the TCU OCIA journey myself in 2023-24. It was during that time that I truly encountered Christ and experienced the beauty of the Church God established. Now, I serve as Vice President of TCU Catholic and help with Liturgy and student outreach, especially to those students who may feel distant from their faith. I'm passionate about helping others grow in their relationship with God and find their place in the Church. Through OCIA, I hope to walk with each of you, offering encouragement, truth, and friendship - just as others did for me when i was seeking something deeper in my own life.
- Sophia Carranza
  
  Hi! My name is Sophia Carranza and I am an Early Childhood Education and Spanish double-major from San Diego, California. I began OCIA in September 2024, and fully entered the Church in April 2025! The past year has been filled with so much learning, growth, and joy in the Lord. When I'm not studying, you can usually find me with friends, hanging out at the Newman, or learning something new. I am praying for all of our new and future OCIA candidates as they listen for an follow the call of our Lord. I am looking forward to walking with you all! Welcome Home!