Dear OCIA Friends,
One of the great blessings of our time is that we have access to an extraordinary wealth of Catholic resources. With just a few clicks, we can read Sacred Scripture, study the Catechism, listen to excellent teachers, pray with the Church, and deepen our understanding of the faith.
At the same time, the internet can be confusing. Alongside excellent Catholic teaching are websites, videos, and social media posts that are incomplete, inaccurate, or simply someone's personal opinion. During your OCIA journey, I encourage you to rely primarily on trusted Catholic sources such as the Vatican, our Diocese, our parish, and the resources we recommend in class. Think of this guide as the beginning of your own Catholic library.
Please don't feel that you need to explore everything at once. There is far more here than anyone could absorb in a few weeks. Instead, return to these resources whenever you have a question or would simply like to grow a little deeper in your faith.
FORMED
Our parish subscribes to FORMED, one of the finest Catholic formation resources available. It contains thousands of videos, Bible studies, audiobooks, documentaries, children's programs, and courses on every aspect of the Catholic faith.
(Access through the St. John Vianney Parish website.)
Sacred Scripture
The Bible in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz
One of the finest introductions to Sacred Scripture ever produced. Father Mike walks through the entire Bible using the Great Adventure Bible Timeline, helping you understand not only individual books but the unfolding story of salvation.
Listen to the podcast · Watch on YouTube · Ascension App — Apple · Ascension App — Android
BibleGateway
An excellent website for reading and comparing Bible translations.
I generally recommend using the New Revised Standard Version, Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE) when reading online.
The Catechism
The Catechism in a Year with Father Mike Schmitz
A wonderful companion to our OCIA classes.
Listen to the podcast · Watch on YouTube
Online Catechism
A searchable online edition of the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
A helpful tip: if you're looking for what the Church teaches on a particular subject, search Google using CCC followed by the topic—for example, CCC Eucharist, CCC salvation, or CCC marriage.
Prayer and Daily Catholic Life
Laudate
If I could recommend just one free Catholic app, this would be it.
It includes:
- Daily Mass readings
- The Catechism
- Liturgy of the Hours
- Rosary
- Divine Mercy Chaplet
- Stations of the Cross
- Examination of Conscience
- Hundreds of Catholic prayers
- Lives of the Saints
- And much more
Catholic Teachers I Highly Recommend
Each of these teachers has a unique gift for presenting the Catholic faith clearly and faithfully.
Bishop Robert Barron
The Eucharist · The Resurrection
Dr. Brant Pitre
Dr. Scott Hahn
Dr. Edward Sri
Father Mike Schmitz
Faith and Reason
The Magis Center
Father Robert Spitzer's outstanding resource on faith, science, philosophy, and evidence for God.
Book Recommendation
The Case for the Resurrection of Jesus
Looking Ahead
During the coming year you'll also be choosing a Confirmation saint, learning to pray more deeply, becoming familiar with the liturgical year, and reading Bible Basics together as a class.
These resources are intended to support—not replace—our conversations in class. Don't worry about mastering everything. Faith grows steadily over time, much like any important friendship. Stay close to Christ, remain faithful to prayer, participate in the life of the Church, and trust that the Holy Spirit will continue the good work He has begun in you.
May God bless you throughout this journey. It is a privilege to walk with you as together we grow in faith, hope, and charity.
In Christ,
Dr. Philip Eulie
OCIA Coordinator
