Sacraments

Before sacramental preparation can begin, you are required to be an active registered member for at least three (3) months. This means attending weekend Masses, using your weekly envelopes, and taking part in parish activities.

Baptism of infants: The Sacrament of Baptism is the foundation of the Sacramental life of the Church. In this sacrament, we are cleansed from sin and are reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, and are incorporated into the Body of Christ. We live out the promises we make at our baptism by regularly practicing our faith. It is therefore important that you and the baptismal sponsor(s) pray and reflect about the raising of your child in the Catholic faith. Baptism preparation classes for parents and Godparents are held at 7 pm on the last Thursday of each month in Spanish, and by appointment in English. Baptisms are held the first Saturday of the month at 11 am. Please call the office to sign up for the class at least one week in advance.

First Holy Communion: Preparation takes place during the 2nd and 3rd grade year of PSR.

Confirmation: Through the Sacrament of Confirmation we come to experience the power of God through the Holy Spirit in a unique way, much as the apostles did on the first Pentecost. Our initiation into the Church which was begun at baptism is carried forward with the anointing by the bishop at Confirmation. Not only are we more deeply rooted in our relationship with God but we become more fully aware of the call to be a true disciple of Christ. Our bond with the Church is thus strengthened and we are able to accept our responsibility to carry out the mission of the Church in our lives. Preparation takes place during the 7th and 8th grade year of PSR.

Baptism of adults and reception into full communion: Adults interested in joining the church should attend RCIA classes.

Reconciliation: Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion takes place in PRS class.

Matrimony: Couples wishing to share their lives with one another and Christ in marriage are requested to contact the Pastor at least six months prior to the tentative wedding date. Our diocese requires a six-month period of formation, including prayer and reflection on the meaning of the sacrament of matrimony before a marriage may take place.

Anointing of the sick: The sacrament of anointing is a gift to all of us. Jesus spent a great deal of time healing the sick, and His ministry is with us today. The Church believes that among the seven sacraments there is one especially intended to strengthen those who are being tried by age and/or illness, the Anointing of the Sick. Through the ancient prayers for healing, the scent and the feel of the holy oil and the touch of the priest’s hand, we can find the strength to continue our struggle with illness, no matter what the outcome might be. We know that God and the community of faith are with us – and we no longer feel quite so alone.

Who may receive?

The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those who are at the point of death. As soon as anyone begins to be in danger from sickness or old age, that is the time to receive this sacrament. If the person regains their health they can, should they become seriously ill again, receive this sacrament again. If during the same illness the person’s condition becomes more serious, the sacrament may be repeated. It is proper for the sacrament to be received just prior to surgery.

Notify the parish office if you wish the Sacrament of Healing, as well as for visits and communion calls.