OCIA Session 30 Supplement - Celebration & Sending Forth - Discipleship beyond OCIA

Celebration & Sending Forth - Discipleship beyond OCIA

You have reached the final session of OCIA. This is a moment to celebrate, to give thanks, and to look forward with joy. The journey that began with questions and curiosity has led you to encounter Christ in the sacraments, to be welcomed into His Church, and to discover your place in the Body of Christ. But this is not the end. It is the beginning of a new chapter. Just as Jesus sent His disciples out after His resurrection, so now the Church sends you forth to live as disciples in the world.

Think of the Apostles after Pentecost. They had spent years with Jesus, learning, watching, listening. But when the Holy Spirit came upon them, they were transformed from hesitant followers into bold witnesses. Acts 1:8 records Jesus’ promise: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” That same Spirit has been poured into you in the sacraments. You are empowered, not just to keep the faith for yourself, but to share it, to live it, and to bring it into every corner of your life.

Celebration is important because gratitude strengthens discipleship. Take time to thank God for what He has done in your life during this journey. Think back to the early sessions - when you were still wondering what OCIA was all about, when you were learning who Jesus is, when you wrestled with the meaning of faith. Think of the Scrutinies, when you prayed for freedom and healing. Think of the Easter Vigil, when you experienced the sacraments and were reborn in Christ. Each step was part of a story - God’s story in your life. Psalm 118:24 says, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Rejoice, because the Lord has been faithful.

Sending forth means mission. The Mass always ends with a sending: “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life.” That dismissal is not just a conclusion; it is a commissioning. You are sent into the world as a disciple, to live differently, to bring Christ into your family, your friendships, your workplace, and your community. Being Catholic is not just about Sunday - it is about every day. It is about being the light of Christ in a world that often feels dark. Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Here’s a humor break: sometimes people think being Catholic means memorizing every saint feast day, knowing every prayer by heart, and never making mistakes. But the truth is, discipleship is not about perfection. It is about persistence. Saints are not people who never sinned - they are people who kept saying yes to God, even after they fell. Discipleship is about showing up daily with faith, even when it’s messy.

Your mission will look different from others. Some are called to serve in parish ministries, teaching children or helping at Mass. Some are called to works of charity, feeding the hungry or visiting the sick. Some are called to witness in workplaces or schools by living with integrity and kindness. Some are called to deeper study or prayer, strengthening the Church with their wisdom and example. All are called to love. St. Teresa of Calcutta put it simply: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

Take time to reflect: how will you live your faith beyond OCIA? What gifts has God given you to share? Where is He calling you to witness? Write down one commitment - something concrete you will do to live as a disciple. Maybe it’s committing to weekly Adoration, joining a parish ministry, volunteering with the poor, or simply praying with your family every night.

Here’s your practical challenge: celebrate with your community. Share a meal, a testimony, or a simple word of gratitude with your parish. Let them know how this journey has touched your life. And then, step boldly into your mission. Remember the words of Joshua 1:9: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

In closing, remember this: OCIA has brought you to the heart of the Church, but discipleship carries you into the world. Celebrate what God has done, give thanks for the gift of faith, and go forth with courage. You are not alone - Christ walks with you, the Holy Spirit strengthens you, and the Church surrounds you. The journey continues, and the adventure of faith has only just begun.