PRAYERS FOR YOUR CELEBRATION
Prayers of the Faithful for RCIA and OCIA Candidates
People preparing for Christian initiation need the continuing prayer of the parish. Their situations differ: some are preparing for baptism, while others are already baptized and preparing for reception or another sacrament. These sets offer ordinary Mass intentions for their journey, using wording that can be chosen accurately. They do not replace the prayers prescribed for the Rite of Election, scrutinies, or other initiation rites. Select one complete option and confirm the correct description with the parish initiation team. RCIA and OCIA are familiar terms for this work in different contexts; the prayer itself can simply name those preparing and the grace they need.
THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER
Prayers of the Faithful for RCIA and OCIA Candidates
PRIEST · INTRODUCTION
Let us pray to our loving Father for those preparing to share more fully in the life of his Church.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For all who proclaim the Gospel, that the Holy Spirit may give them courage, wisdom, and gentleness in their service.
We pray to the Lord.
For those responsible for public life, that God may strengthen their efforts to secure food, shelter, and safety for all.
We pray to the Lord.
For those who feel forgotten, especially the housebound and lonely, that God may comfort them through the presence of others.
We pray to the Lord.
For catechumens preparing for baptism, that God may deepen their faith and bless the people accompanying them on their journey.
We pray to the Lord.
For those who have gone before us in faith, that the risen Lord may bring them to the fullness of life.
We pray to the Lord.
For all who have asked for our prayers, that God may bring them help and surround them with his love.
We pray to the Lord.
PRIEST · CONCLUDING PRAYER
Faithful Father, receive our prayers. Guide those preparing for the sacraments and strengthen your whole Church in faith and love. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Click or tap any prayer text to edit. Your changes stay on this device.
PRACTICAL GUIDANCE
Preparing these prayers.
Are catechumens and candidates the same?
Not always. An unbaptized person preparing for baptism and an already baptized Christian have different situations. Confirm the correct term with the parish initiation team.
Can these replace scrutiny intercessions?
No. The scrutinies have their own prescribed texts and structure. These examples serve the parish’s continuing prayer outside those specific ritual requirements.
Should the intention say RCIA or OCIA?
The parish can use its familiar terminology in explanatory material. In the spoken prayer, “those preparing for the sacraments” is often clearer and avoids unnecessary abbreviations.
