Sacraments

Baptism of Infants

Infant Baptism is really a celebration of adult faith. Parents and godparents and all those present renew their faith commitment to Jesus and promise to share their faith with their children. We ask that parents and godparents attend a pre-baptism instruction held the first Wednesday of the month in the Rectory. The usual times for infant Baptism are at Sunday Mass; the third Sunday of the month or at 11a.m. the first Saturday of the month.

Baptism of Adults/Profession of Faith

Baptized non-Catholics or unbaptized persons interested in becoming a Catholic are encouraged to become a part of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This is a program of inquiry and rituals culminating in the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday) as adults are baptized or make a Profession of Faith if they are already baptized. Following this experience, there are several weeks more instruction and prayer.

Eucharist

This is the second sacrament of initiation. Children who have reached their eighth birthday and who have had at least two years' participation in Children of Peace School or our Sunday school may be admitted to their First Communion. The Eucharist is the summit and source of all Christian spirituality. It is food and drink for the journey of life. First Communion is usually celebrated the first weekend in May each year.

Reconciliation (Confession)

One of the most consoling and original teachings of Jesus is the mercy of God. Through the sacrament of reconciliation we receive the graces of forgiveness and the power to send our lives in a new direction. You may call the Rectory to make an appointment for this sacrament. During the Saturdays of Advent and Lent, a priest is available in Church. There is also an evening communal Penance Service with confessions during the Advent and Lenten seasons.

Confirmation

This is the third and last sacrament of initiation. Confirmation fortifies and "confirms" Baptism. It is the sacrament of the Holy Spirit who leads us into a deeper relationship with Jesus while reaching out to embrace the world in acts of loving service. Young people make a personal commitment to follow Jesus to build on the commitment made for them by their parents and godparents at Baptism. Our young people receive Confirmation usually in April each year but only after at least a two year period of preparation.

Marriage

Couples contemplating marriage have to have at least an eight month period between the initial contact with the parish and the actual marriage. During this period of "waiting," the couple prepares not so much for the wedding day but rather for married life. Meetings with the parish priest and participation in the diocesan preparation programs are a must. Couples need to learn or reinforce the ingredients of an intimate relationship.

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Communion of the Sick

We will gladly bring Communion to all those who are sick or homebound. You need to call the Rectory and someone will visit you on a regular basis during your convalescence or your long-term confinement to home or nursing home. If there is a serious illness, please call the parish priest who will come to administer the Sacrament of the Sick either at home or in the hospital.