The Seven Sacraments
Outward signs of inward grace, instituted by Christ for our sanctification.
1. Sacrament of Baptism
The door to life and the kingdom of God. It is the first sacrament of the New Law, which Christ offered to all that they might have eternal life.
Preparation & Requirements:
- Parents must register at the Parish Office.
- Attendance at a Baptismal Preparation Class for parents and godparents.
- Godparents must be practicing Catholics who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
2. Sacrament of Confirmation
Completes the grace of Baptism by a special outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, sealing the baptized in union with Christ.
Preparation & Requirements:
- Candidates must complete a two-year catechetical program.
- Regular attendance at Sunday Mass and active participation in parish youth ministry.
- A Confirmation sponsor must be chosen to guide the candidate’s spiritual journey.
3. Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist
The source and summit of the Christian life. In this sacrament, we receive the real Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.
Preparation & Requirements:
- Children must be in the second grade or older and have completed one year of religious education.
- Candidates must receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before their First Holy Communion.
- One must observe the Eucharistic fast (water/medicine excluded) for one hour before receiving.
4. Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation
Through this sacrament, we obtain pardon from God’s mercy for offenses committed and are reconciled with the Church.
Preparation & Requirements:
- A sincere Examination of Conscience based on the Ten Commandments.
- True contrition (sorrow for sins) and a firm purpose of amendment.
- Catholics are encouraged to go to Confession at least once a year.
5. Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
The Church commends those who are ill to the suffering and glorified Lord, that He may raise them up and save them.
Preparation & Requirements:
- Contact the Parish Priest when a parishioner is seriously ill or preparing for surgery.
- Can be celebrated in the church, at home, or in the hospital.
- Family members are encouraged to be present to pray with the sick person.
6. Sacrament of Holy Orders
The sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church.
Preparation & Requirements:
- A period of discernment through prayer and spiritual direction.
- Years of study in a seminary focusing on human, spiritual, and pastoral growth.
- Formal recommendation from the Vocation Director and acceptance by the Bishop.
7. Sacrament of Matrimony
A partnership of the whole of life between a man and a woman, ordered toward the good of the spouses and their offspring.
Preparation & Requirements:
- Couples must contact the Parish Priest at least six months before the wedding date.
- Completion of a marriage preparation retreat (Pre-Cana) is mandatory.
- Recent copies of Baptismal certificates and legal licenses are required.