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Newly initiated Catholics from across the Diocese of Columbus, Ohio, gathered May 31 for a retreat delving into Mystagogy — the final stage of the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA).
The Catholic Times, the Diocese of Columbus’ newspaper, reported that the retreat gave new Catholics — known as neophytes — the opportunity to gather with others who had also been recently initiated into the Church and learn how to continue in their newly accepted faith. They also heard talks, participated in small groups, and attended Mass celebrated by Columbus Bishop Earl K. Fernandes.
According to The Catholic Times, “Neophytes deepened their understanding of the Scriptures, the sacraments and Church teachings while continuing to grow in faith. The retreat was also a reminder that, while they were initiated in the Catholic Church, the journey to conversion did not end but is simply beginning.”
New Catholics entered the Church from various backgrounds and points in their lives, The Catholic Times reported. Dasha Onhyandy, a retreat attendant who was formerly a non-denominational Christian, entered the Church at Easter with her husband and their children after experiencing God’s grace and feeling called to convert last year.
Peter Mercadante, a retreat attendant who had been baptized Catholic but received the sacraments of Eucharist and Confirmation this year, said his initiation into the Church and the Mystagogy retreat were deeply helpful for him overall. The retreat helped him focus on the future of his faith, and placing his trust in God has helped him in other areas of his life, he said.
The diocese’s Department of Evangelization has said they intend to continue offering Mystagogy retreats to assist in the process of ongoing conversion.
