OCIA
Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion
The Church provides a process to join its community of believers called the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). This process of spiritual formation contains several rites, including the Rite of Election, which is presided by the bishop and held at the opening of the Lenten season. In this rite, those who have never been baptized, known as “catechumens,” are “elected” by God to receive the sacraments of Christian initiation at Easter. Also participating are “candidates,” those who were baptized but have yet to receive their First Communion or confirmation. The Rite of Election brings catechumens and candidates from their individual parishes together in a large, joyous celebration of new followers of Jesus Christ.
2026 Rite of Election
Sunday, March 1, 2026
University of San Diego - Jenny Craig Pavilion
5998 Alcala Park Way, San Diego, CA 92110
Ceremony: 3 PM - 5 PM
2026 Rite of Election
Sunday, March 1, 2026
University of San Diego - Jenny Craig Pavilion
5998 Alcala Park Way, San Diego, CA 92110
Ceremony: 3 PM
Guidance for Parishes
Memo to Parishes for ROE
ROE Training Presentation
ROE Order of Service and OCIA Dates
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the event be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend?
No, livestream is not available.
Will an Order of Service be provided?
Yes, an Order of Service in English and Spanish will be available on our website for individuals to download.
Where may I obtain a Book of the Elect?
Please contact the Office for Evangelization and Catechetical Ministry to obtain a book. The cost is $45.00
How will assigned seating be arranged?
Parishes will not have assigned seats, rather, they will be assigned a section area.
Will tickets be provided as we have in the past?
Yes, a ticket will be provided detailing the ceremony time and assigned seating section area.
My parish is arriving by bus. Where is the drop-off and pick-up location?
The ROE information package will have the information and map for the designated area.
Will parish group pictures be offered this year?
No. Group pictures will not be scheduled this year. A designated photographer will take photos of each ceremony, and these will be posted on our social media platforms- www.facebook.com/sddisciples and www.instagram.com/oecmsd
Will outdoor seating and overflow seating be offered?
No, seating will only be available inside the venue.
Is there a cost to attend?
Due to capacity constraints, Good Shepherd can no longer accommodate the increased attendance. We are grateful to have secured the Jenny Craig Pavilion for the 2026 Rite of Election, thanks to the generosity of the University of San Diego’s administration. To assist with some of the costs of hosting this diocesan celebration, all parishes will subsidize the event with a $500.00 contribution. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Leticia Trent directly at 858- 490-8237.
Will the event be livestreamed for those who are unable to attend?
No, livestream is not available.
When will I receive notification of my assigned Rite of Election ceremony?
Will an Order of Service be provided?
Yes, an Order of Service in English and Spanish will be available on our website for individuals to download.
Where may I obtain a Book of the Elect?
Please contact the Office for Evangelization and Catechetical Ministry to obtain a book. The cost is $45.00
How will assigned seating be arranged?
Parishes will not have assigned seats, rather, they will be assigned a section area.
Will tickets be provided as we have in the past?
Yes, a ticket will be provided detailing the ceremony time and assigned seating section area.
My parish is arriving by bus. Where is the drop-off and pick-up location?
The ROE information package will have the information and map for the designated area.
Will parish group pictures be offered this year?
No. Group pictures will not be scheduled this year. A designated photographer will take photos of each ceremony, and these will be posted on our social media platforms- www.facebook.com/sddisciples and www.instagram.com/oecmsd
Will outdoor seating and overflow seating be offered?
No, seating will only be available inside the venue.
My parish is assigned for a Saturday Rite of Election Ceremony, when shall I
do my Rite of Sending?
do my Rite of Sending?
Guidance, resources and a script will be provided for you.
Is there a cost to attend?
No, there is no cost for parishes to participate in the Diocesan Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion.