These sacraments are milestones in your faith journey, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Baptism
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19)
Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation and the foundation of a Christian life. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin, become members of Christ, and are welcomed into the Church community.
Preparation Process:
- For Infants: Parents and godparents are invited to participate in a Baptism Preparation Class. This session provides an overview of the sacrament, its meaning, and how to nurture your child’s faith.
- For Older Children and Adults: Preparation follows the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) or adapted RCIA for children.
To learn more about Baptism or to schedule your child’s Baptism, please contact [Parish Office Contact Information].
First Holy Communion
“This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19)
First Holy Communion is a special sacrament where individuals receive the Eucharist for the first time, deepening their relationship with Christ and the Church.
Preparation Process:
- Children typically prepare for their First Holy Communion in second grade through parish religious education programs or Catholic school.
- Classes include instruction on the Eucharist’s significance, learning prayers, and participation in a retreat.
Parents are encouraged to be actively involved in their child’s preparation. Please contact [Religious Education Contact Information] for program details and registration.
Confirmation
“Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” (Rite of Confirmation)
Confirmation is the sacrament that completes Baptism and strengthens individuals with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to live out their faith boldly.
Preparation Process:
- Candidates usually prepare for Confirmation in their teens, often around eighth grade, but adults can also receive this sacrament through RCIA.
- Preparation includes catechetical sessions, service projects, a retreat, and selecting a Confirmation sponsor.
To enroll in Confirmation preparation or learn more, contact [Confirmation Program Contact Information].
How to Register
We look forward to supporting you and your family in preparing for these sacred sacraments. To register or ask questions, please reach out to:
- Parish Office: [Phone Number] | [Email Address]
- Religious Education Coordinator: [Phone Number] | [Email Address]
Helpful Links:
- [Baptism Registration Form]
- [First Communion Registration Form]
- [Confirmation Registration Form]
Let us walk together in faith as we celebrate these meaningful steps in your spiritual journey!
For Infants and Children under 7 Years of Age
Baptism for parish members with infants or children under 7 years of age is celebrated regularly, with the exception of the Lenten Season. Parents are required to attend our pre-Baptismal preparation meeting.
The Origin and Foundation of Christian Baptism
The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus. Before starting His public ministry, Jesus submitted Himself to the baptism given by John the Baptist. The waters did not purify Him; He cleansed the waters. Jesus did not need to be baptized because He was totally faithful to the will of His Father and free from sin. However, He wanted to show His solidarity with human beings in order to reconcile them to the Father. By commanding His disciples to baptize all nations, He established the means by which people would die to sin – Original and actual – and begin to live a new life with God.
In Baptism, the Holy Spirit moves us to answer Christ’s call to holiness. We are asked to walk by the light of Christ and to trust in His wisdom. We are invited to submit our hearts to Christ with ever deeper love.
For more information, visit the USCCB’s website on Baptism: USCCB Baptism Information.
Preparing for Baptism
Congratulations! We would love to meet with you to discuss this beautiful and most important Sacrament. Some helpful tips for your meeting with Father:
- Godparents: Two Godparents are not required. If you wish to have two, or just one, one of the Godparents must be a fully initiated Catholic, meaning they have received all the Sacraments: Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation. Godparents must also be at least 16 years old. If you wish to have more than two Godparents, others may be considered as Witnesses on the day of your child’s Baptism.
- Scheduling a Meeting: Please call the office at (315) 902-4130 to set up a time to meet with Father to discuss your child’s Baptism.
We look forward to meeting you and your family!
Baptism Preparation Program
Our Parish offers a Baptism Preparation Program for parents and godparents who wish to share their faith with their child. To register, please call the Parish Office at (315) 902-4130.
For Older Children and Adults
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is designed for adults and children who have reached the age of reason (typically age 7 or older) and are seeking membership in the Church. Through this process, those called by God, who consciously and freely seek Him, may join His family, the Church.
RCIA has different stages or periods, always attentive to the freedom of the inquirer, and is offered throughout the year. Candidates are accepted into full communion with the Church during the Easter Vigil through the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
To inquire or schedule a meeting, please call the Parish Office at (315) 902-4130.