On April 12, 2026, Divine Mercy Sunday, the Abbey Church was filled to standing room only, with students shoulder to shoulder in every pew for a beautfiul two-hour OCIA mass.
During the Mass, 30 Benedictine students received the sacraments, with eight being baptized and 22 being confirmed. These students had been preparing through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) classes on campus to receive the sacraments and become members of the Church.
The program, led by Fr. Christian, Rebecca Rice and Graeson Dall, guides students through all stages of faith, from initial interest in learning more to the decision to enter the Church. Through classes and student mentors, the program teaches candidates the Catholic Church’s core beliefs. In addition, it seeks to integrate these teachings into everyday life so that participants learn what it means to be Catholic beyond a purely intellectual understanding.
The program culminates on Divine Mercy Sunday, when catechumens enter the Church and receive the sacraments.
Archbishop Shawn McKnight was the main celebrant of the Mass, and in his homily, he focused on the gifts received through Confirmation and Baptism. He spoke about the disciples and how receiving the Holy Spirit moved them from “fear to boldness,” enabling them to proclaim the Gospel to the nations.
Students interested in learning more about the faith are encouraged to contact Rebecca Rice or any of the chaplains on campus. They may attend a class without commitment to learn more about the faith.
