Order of Christian Initiation of Adults is a gradual process by which adults ordinarily become incorporated to the Catholic Church. It is marked with a series of steps (formal rites) celebrated in a context of learning the faith and spiritual formation. The rites gradually incorporate the person into the body of Christ, the Church.

• An unbaptized adult who feels God’s call to the Catholic Church (catechumen)
• Baptized Catholic adults who need to receive the sacrament of the Eucharist and/or Confirmation
• Those baptized in other Christian churches and seek full communion with the Roman Catholic Church
• Non-practicing Catholics who want to return to the church and deepen their faith
• One in an interfaith marriage and wants to understand the family’s Catholic faith better

Embracing the Catholic Faith is a call from God. He calls in different ways and at different times. Thus, one can begin the process at any time. The conversion journey is always personal, shaped and influenced by many factors. Individuals vary in their needs and readiness.

If you are interested in learning more about our OCIA, please, contact any of our Pastors or call Sr. Elizabeth Wanyoike, ESM (Adult Faith Coordinator) at St. John Neumann Catholic Church’s office 865-966-4540.

The next sessions start on Wednesday, Jan. 7 , 2026 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.
You can sign up here: https://forms.gle/CkJXse5Jhgw5W1MW7

Ongoing Adult Fatih Formation Programs: Spring 2025

We are excited to announce our upcoming Adult Faith Formation programs beginning in January! Whether you’re looking to deepen your faith, explore the Gospels, or grow in friendships and community, there is a study for you!

She Shall Be Called Woman: Restored to Radiance Join us for Season Four of this beloved 9-week program! Starting Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 6:30-7:50 AM, we’ll explore how Scripture offers us a powerful image of light in Christ. This season focuses on being restored to His radiance and becoming a light to our families, friends, and the world. If you previously signed up, you do not need to register again.

• Register at: https://programs.paradisusdei.org/join/9F16BB
• Contact: Natalie Tabler at ntabler2020@icloud.com

My Father’s Father (Wild Goose Series) Discover the Heart of God as Our Father with Fr. Dave Pivonka in this enlightening 6-part documentary series. This study explores the transformative impact of embracing God’s fatherhood and addresses fear, doubt, shame, and brokenness.

• Monday sessions: January 12, 9:00-10:30 AM
• Tuesday sessions: January 13, 6:00-7:30 PM
• Register at: https://forms.gle/45bUaKkLdh8hEDYRA
• Contact: Sr. Elizabeth at srelizabeth@sjnknox.org or 865-777-4313

Women’s Evening Bible Study: Luke – The Story of Salvation Fulfilled Journey through the Gospel of Luke, witnessing key moments in salvation history from the Annunciation to the Resurrection. Explore Luke’s unique parables including the Prodigal Son, the Good Samaritan, and more.

• Begins Thursday, January 8 in Seton Hall
• Arrival time: 5:30 PM | Class begins: 6:00 PM
• Contact: Carol Dawson at qmscarol@hotmail.com

The Case for Jesus (Lectio Series) Prepare for Lent with Dr. Brant Pitre as he examines the authenticity, authorship, and dating of the Gospels. This 9-session study will strengthen your faith and equip you to confidently respond to skeptics.

• Monday sessions: Beginning January 5 at 10:00 AM (Seton Hall, ending around 12:00 PM) OR 7:00 PM (SJN Library, ending around 8:30 PM)
• Tuesday sessions: Beginning January 6 at 10:00 AM (Seton Hall, ending around 12:00 PM)
• Approximate cost: $25.00 (workbook and book)
• Register at: https://forms.gle/zu2hDCab9xZNo5378
• Contact: Chris Allen at c557paul@gmail.com or 865-368-8300, or Sr. Elizabeth Wanyoike, ESM at 865-777-4313 or srelizabeth@sjnknox.org

OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) Beginning soon! A journey into the Catholic Church for those seeking baptism, conversion, completion of sacraments, or deeper catechetical knowledge.

• Begins Wednesday, January 7 from 6:30-8:30 PM
• Register at: https://forms.gle/CkJXse5Jhgw5W1MW7
• Contact: Sr. Elizabeth at 865-777-4313

All are welcome! Choose the program that speaks to your heart and join us in growing together in faith. Check out the bulletin for more information!

If you are interested in learning more about these opportunities, please check the church bulletin or contact Sister Elizabeth at the church office at 865-966-4540 or by email at srelizabeth@sjnknox.org

“Let the children come to me. Do not hinder them. The kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14

Jesus calls us to know and to follow Him. The primary aim of St. John Neumann’s parish religious education program is directed toward this mission so that children may grow in faith, hope, and love as His true disciples. Through an array of teaching methods, children are introduced to the Blessed Trinity, Prayer, Scripture, and Tradition, and as a result, come to know and love God.

For more information on the SJN religious education program, sacramental preparation, or to volunteer, contact the Parish Office or visit the Religious Education page.

“That Man is You!” is one of the country’s leading Catholic men’s programs sweeping across the Nation in over 700 parishes. “That Man is You” combines Scripture, solid research about the trends of your contemporary world, and a little fun to address the pressures and temptations facing men in our modern culture. The ministry’s goal is twofold.

1. Form authentic leaders who will be capable of transforming men, who in turn can transform their families and homes.
2. Provide Catholic men the tools they need to lead themselves and their families to live a life of virtue.

A completely new TMIY program begins September 9, 2023 – new speakers, new topics, new theme!

Thy Kingdom Come – View Promo Video Here

This new year brings dynamic speakers from a range of backgrounds.  The Fight of Faith equips and enables men to engage in the cosmic, spiritual battle raging in our day.  Men will rediscover and reclaim their identities as soldiers, saints, brothers, disciples, sons of God and friends of Christ.

Now is the perfect time to join or re-join TMIY!

A list of speakers and a summary of topics for Thy Kingdom Come are available by downloading the brochure  HERE.

Please Join Us! Contact Bruce Soderberg at bwsoderberg@gmail.com or Rich Cataldi at cdrcataldi@tds.net