Sacraments

Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation Youth

Children of catechetical age are prepared for the Sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Reconciliation. Children's Masses and Children's Liturgy of the Word are celebrated in the parish.

Baptism

Baptisms are arranged by appointment. Phone Rectory for information before or shortly after the child's birth.

First Eucharist

First Holy Communion is received in the second grade of religious education. The first year of instruction covers the basic topics of God, Jesus, and Church. The second year is a time of immediate preparation for First Eucharist, emphasizing the community, forgiveness, the Mass, and our personal relationship with Jesus.

First Reconciliation

The sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated in the second grade of religious education for all baptized students.  

Older Children

On an individual basis, children who have not celebrated the sacraments are offered a special class to prepare for the sacrament(s).

Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation Teens

Students in grades 7 and 8 are offered an opportunity to prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation with Confirmation being celebrated in the spring of 8th grade. The Confirmation Program requires attendance at classes, Mass attendance, participation in ministry service opportunities and a retreat. Candidates are encouraged to involve family and a sponsor in their lives and in the Confirmation formation process. The focus in Confirmation is to complete the initiation process begun at Baptism and to become a disciple of Jesus through the Catholic Church.

Faith Formation and Sacramental Preparation Adults

Christian Initiation of Adults

This process is intended primarily for those who are interested in exploring the Catholic faith and have either not been baptized, or who have been baptized in a different Christian denomination. The sessions are intended to give participants the opportunity to ask questions, clarify misconceptions they may have about the Catholic Church and to learn about Catholic teaching, traditions, and practices. Each participant has a member of the parish who acts as a sponsor and with whom they can discuss and share their experience. The group meets weekly on Wednesday evenings.

Catholic parishioners 18 years or older, who have received First Eucharist and who participate regularly in weekend Masses are eligible to receive Confirmation either during the annual parish Confirmation or at St. Mary’s Cathedral with other adults in the SF Archdiocese (Fall and Pentecost). Contact the parish Director of Adult Education regarding preparation.

Marriage

Marriage preparation is by appointment and couples are asked to phone the rectory at least six months prior to their contemplated wedding date to schedule.