Sacramental Preparation
RCIA (Baptism)
We welcome school-age children who have not been baptized or who were baptized into another faith tradition. These children are prepared for baptism or reception into the Church through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults adapted for Children. The parent(s) of the child will participate with the child in the process. Families attend the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sunday mornings, September –June and catechetical sessions afterwards in the school. Children in the process celebrate the RCIA rites at Mass in the presence of the community. Baptism or reception into the Church, along with Confirmation and First Communion, are celebrated at the Easter Vigil.
Reconciliation
Instruction for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Penance) is required before a child receives First Eucharist (First Communion). Preparation normally takes place during second grade. Preparation is the responsibility of the parent, in cooperation with the parish. Components include two parent sessions in the fall and winter, completion of a workbook, a retreat for the children, and decoration of a candle used at the First Reconciliation celebration.
Eucharist (First Communion)
Instruction for First Eucharist, is required before a child receives First Communion. The preparation normally takes place during the second grade. Preparation is the responsibility if the parent, in cooperation with the parish. Components include a parent session in the winter, completion of a work, a book, a retreat for the children, and completion of a banner to hang on the family’s pew during the Mass at which the child receives First Communion.
View First Reconciliation/First Communion calendars
Confirmation
Instruction for the Sacrament of Confirmation is required before a student is confirmed, usually during eighth grade. The Confirmation preparation process begins at the end of the sixth grade year and continues through grades 7 and 8. Preparation for student above grade 8 will be considered on an individual basis. The preparation process includes regular attendance in the religious education program, a parent-student orientation meeting at the end of 6th grade, one retreat in grade 7, two retreats in grade 8, participation in service experiences and completion of reflection questions, and completion of refection questions with the candidate’s sponsor.