The OCIA process is divided into four significant periods of time:

The Inquiry Period in our parish lasts one year, from August through to December of the following year. It is a time of introduction to the gospel of Jesus Christ, of introduction to the Catholic Church, and deciding if one is ready to profess faith in Jesus Christ and begin the second period of the OCIA preparation to become a Catholic.
The Catechumenate Period from December (of the second year) until Lent of the second year. It begins with the Rite of Acceptance and is a time of more spiritual growth and learning about Christian beliefs and life as understood and practiced by Christians.
The Period of Purification and Enlightenment, from the beginning of Lent (of the second year) until Easter (of the second year). It begins with the Rite of Election, held at St. Columba Cathedral (Youngstown). The bishop acknowledges the readiness of the Catechumens to receive the Sacraments of Initiation. During this period there is more intense preparation and prayer.
The Period of Mystagogy is the 50-day period following Easter to Pentecost. The newly initiated Christians continue to reflect on their spiritual journeys and learn more about living the new life they have begun.
 
WHO IS INVOLVED IN THE OCIA PROCESS?
Those preparing to receive the Sacraments of initiation are called Candidates or Catechumens. The OCIA team is a group of Catholic men and women who lead the weekly meetings and assist those preparing for initiation on their journeys. Other members of the parish, such as priests, deacons, and others will occasionally lead the weekly meetings and discussions. Sponsors are spiritual companions for those preparing for initiation. Each person needs to have a sponsor by the Catechumenate Period. This person is a practicing Catholic chosen by the person or provided by the parish and attends the weekly meetings with the person to be initiated. The sponsor may not be a spouse or parent of the adult.