Sacraments

The Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are ceremonies that point to what is sacred, significant and important for Christians. They are special occasions for experiencing God’s saving presence. That’s what theologians mean when they say that sacraments are at the same time signs and instruments of God’s grace.

“Visible signs of Invisible Grace”
– St. Augustine

Anointing of the Sick

The Catholic 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.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Anointing of the Sick

Please call the parish office in case of serious illness to make arrangements for this sacrament.

Baptism

For Catholics, 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.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Baptism

Baptisms are usually celebrated on the second and fourth Sundays of the month, except during Advent and Lent. Parents presenting children for Baptism should be registered parishioners. At least one parent and one godparent should be practicing Catholics. Participation in a Baptism class is required before the Sacrament will be conferred. Call the parish office to register. Adults seeking Baptism should contact the parish office to participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).

Communion

Catholics believe 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.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Communion

To receive First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation, a child’s family should be registered in our religious education program. This is part of our second grade curriculum for those enrolled in the parish school. Students not attending our parish school should register in our Family Formation program and participate for at least one year prior to this year of preparation. Parents are expected to participate in the preparation of their children; parental meetings will take place during the preparation process. For more information, contact the Director of Religious Education.

Confirmation

Confirmation is a Catholic Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. It is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation for Catholics. It is most often associated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated in our parish every other year (during odd-numbered calendar years) for seventh and eighth graders. The two-year preparation program, which includes educational and service components, is part of the junior high curriculum in our parish school. Students not attending our parish school should register in the READY Confirmation program. For more information, contact the Director of Religious Education.

Holy Orders

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.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Holy Orders

Marriage

For Catholics, 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.

– excerpt from amerciancatholic.org

Learn more about marriage

In preparation for married life, a prospective bride and groom must be instructed in the obligations and responsibilities of Christian marriage according to the Catholic Church. Couples wishing to marry at Holy Family must contact the parish office at least eight months prior to the intended day of the wedding. At least one of the parties should be a registered and active member of the parish in his/her own name before requesting a date. Before a date can be set, it is necessary for the bride and groom to meet with the Pastor or his associate to establish freedom to marry. Attendance at Pre-Cana or Engaged Encounter is required, in addition to a Christian Sexuality workshop or a Natural Family Planning class. Additional information about these workshops is available through the Diocesan Office of Marriage and Family Life.

Reconciliation

The Catholic Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Penance, or Penance and Reconciliation) has three elements: conversion, confession and celebration. In it we find God’s unconditional forgiveness; as a result we are called to forgive others.

– excerpt from americancatholic.org

Learn more about Reconciliation

Confessions are heard every Saturday: 3:00 PM to 4:30 PM or by appointment. Special times are announced for Parish Penance services during Advent and Lent.