Sacramental Preparation Classes

Baptism
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life. Through Baptism we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission.

Please call the Church Office to begin the process of preparation for Baptism of Infants or Baptism of Older Children or Adults.  Parents and godparents are required to participate in Baptismal preparation classes for baptism of children.  For Baptism of older children and adults please see below Rite of Christian Initiation of Children and Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.

First  Holy Communion
First Communion requires two years of preparation prior to receiving this Sacrament. At St. Mary's, our Faith Formation program assists in the formation process. Children attend age appropriate classes in Faith Formation as well as First Commuion/First Reconciliation Classes as part of their preparation. A child must be baptized and must be 7 years old by the date of receiving First Communion.  

Confirmation
Each baptized Catholic has the right and the obligation to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.  Candidates may request the Sacrament if they:

• Are baptized and able to renew baptismal promises.
• Exhibit a desire to grow in the faith life and knowledge of the Church.
• Participate in the sacramental life of the Church, especially the Euthcarist.
• Are willing to commit to active involvement in the parish Confirmation catechesis.
• Are willing to respond to the call to Christian service.
• Are willing to continue to learn and grown in the faith following Confirmation and throughout their lifetime.
• Have attained the age of fourteen (14) or older at the time of the celebration of the Sacrament.

A record of regular attendance at the religious education classes in a Catholic School or parish regligious education (Faith Formation) program is needed befeore a candidate can be enrolled for Confimation preparation. Confirmation preparation involves two years of classes before the celebration of the Sacrament.

Rite of Christian Initiation For Children
Children who have reached the age of 8 or older without baptism will receive the Sacraments of Baptism, First Communion, and Confirmation at the Easter Vigil.  This is also a two year process. Please contact Faith Formation Directors to enroll your child in this program.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults
Adults who are interested in coming into full communion with the Catholic Faith must attend a RCIA  Classes.  RCIA classes are open to any non-Catholic who would like to learn more about the Catholic faith. During the period of formation, the candidate may choose to continue through to full communion at the Easter Vigil or may choose to delay this important decision to a later date. If interested in RCIA, please call the church office to make an appointment with Fr. Jon.