St. Mary Immaculate Parish offers a wide range of adult education and enrichment opportunities for your spiritual growth.
There is truly something for everyone.
Check out the many varied programs below.
We’ve secured an exclusive discount for all of our parishioners for the Hallow app. Learn more about it at the Hallow page, and see the links further down the page for current events and challenges in the app!
Also check our Facebook page for information as events get closer. Joining our parish email list (Evangelus at eva.us/smip) will also enable you to easily receive updates and registration information about upcoming programs.
For more information about any of our Adult Faith Formation programs contact Dr. Doug Muir (dmuir@smip.org).
Director of Adult Formation
Contact: Dr. Doug Muir (815) 436-2651 ext. 889 or dmuir@smip.org
Interested in Becoming Catholic?
Becoming Catholic as an Adult
Your Pathway to Full Communion with the Church
■ Step 1 for Everyone: “Faith Curious?”
All adults begin by participating in our “Faith Curious?” monthly gatherings—open, no-pressure inquiry sessions held once a month for about 2- 3 months. This is a time to ask questions, meet others on the journey, and explore your interest in the Catholic faith. Next Sessions: Aug. 26; Sept. 23; Oct. 28; Dec. 9th at 7 PM – 9 PM 2026.
■ Never Baptized?
Path: Full Christian Initiation through OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults)
A minimum 15-month journey of spiritual formation, similar to an apprenticeship in the Catholic way of life. Culminates at the Easter Vigil, where you receive: Baptism, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion. We typically meet at the 9 am Mass till 10:30 am. Typically 3 of 4 Sundays
You may begin at any time, but formation lasts at least 12-15 months
■ Baptized in Another Christian Tradition?
Path: Profession of Faith + Completion of Initiation
You will make a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church. Then receive: Confirmation and First Holy Communion. Formation typically lasts about 6 months, depending on prior experience. You may be received into the Church at any time of year. A copy of your Baptismal Certificate will be required
■ Baptized Catholic but Never Confirmed or Received First Communion? Path: Completion of Initiation
You are already Catholic—but may need Confirmation and First Holy Communion.
Preparation generally lasts about 6 months, based on your background. May be completed through OCIA or a dedicated Adult Confirmation program. A copy of your Baptismal Certificate will be required
■ Ready to Begin?
Come to a “Faith Curious?” session and let’s talk. We’re excited to accompany you on this life-changing journey.
Questions? Contact:
Dr. Doug Muir
dmuir@smip.org
815.436.2651 x889
Adult Formation Opportunities at St. Mary Immaculate!
The Rescue Project
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At Home and Online Faith Formation Resources
Please consider taking advantage of the diocesan partnership with the Virtual Learning Community for Faith Formation sponsored by the University of Dayton. Take any 8 week online course in faith formation (graded or not graded) at an extremely discounted rate. The Diocese of Joliet subsidizes this opportunity so that as many of our parishioners as possible can take courses at their own convenience. Topics include biblical studies, Church history, sacraments, Catholic Social Teaching, Marianist studies, Evangelii Gaudium, Islam, ministry, and so many others! Follow this link to learn more: https://vlcff.udayton.edu
Stay connected with all adult formation news from SMI!
Click Here to view the various Adult Formation Ministries.