Sacraments

Baptism:
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.

The Sacrament of Baptism may be celebrated at different times during the year at weekend liturgies, or a specific date and time by calling Fr. McKay. Parent preparation sessions are required diocesan policy. Parents are urged to attend before the birth of the child. At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic, age 16 or older, confirmed, and must present a sponsor certificate if from another parish. Click the following link to begin the planning process by completing the Baptism Worksheet, then call the parish office to register for preparation sessions.

Baptism Worksheet

Confirmation:
Confirmation is a Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. Like Baptism and Eucharist, it is a Sacrament of Initiation for Catholics and a Sacrament of faith in God’s fidelity to us. Preparation extends over a two-year period, and begins in grade 10 or above.

Eucharist:
The Eucharist, or Communion, is both a sacrifice and a meal. We believe in the real presence of Jesus, who died for our sins. As we receive Christ’s Body and Blood, we also are nourished spiritually and brought closer to God. This sacrament is typically prepared for and first celebrated in the second grade.

Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as the Sacrament of Penance, or Penance and Reconciliation) has three elements: conversion, confession and celebration. In it we find God’s unconditional forgiveness, and as a result we are called to forgive others. This sacrament is typically prepared for and first celebrated in the second grade.

This sacrament is always received before First Communion.

Marriage
The Sacrament of Marriage, or Holy Matrimony, is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to this other person. It is also a public statement about God: the loving union of husband and wife speaks of family values and also God’s values. Couples contemplating marriage must contact the Pastor at least six (6) months prior to a desired wedding date. Engated Encounter or Pre-Cana Conferences are mandatory and are available in the area at various times of the year. Please make no firm plans, or arrangements for a wedding before meeting with Fr. McKay. Contact the parish office for more information.

Anointing of the Sick/Visitation
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, formerly known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, is a ritual of healing appropriate not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual sickness.

Please call the parish office to arrange for communion, anointing of the sick, or when someone is ill, in the hospital or in need of help in any way. (Please note: the privacy rules do not allow the hospital to contact the parish.) It is now completely up to family members to inform the church when someone has been admitted to a hospital if a visit is wanted.

Sacrament of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Sick will be given on the first weekend of each month, after the Masses, to those who wish to receive it.

Holy Orders/Vocations
In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, or Ordination, the priest being ordained vows to lead other Catholics by bringing them the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), by proclaiming the Gospel, and by providing other means to holiness.