Saramental Ministries

OCIA - Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) program at our parish is a welcoming journey for adults or families who are seeking to grow in faith, deepen their relationship with Christ, and enter fully into the Catholic Church. Whether you have never been baptized, were baptized in another Christian tradition, or are a baptized Catholic who has not yet received the sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist, OCIA offers a supportive, faith-filled environment for learning and spiritual formation.

Participants meet regularly with sponsors and small groups to explore the teachings, traditions, and practices of the Catholic faith. Through prayer, discussion, and community, individuals are guided toward a personal encounter with Christ and a fuller understanding of His Church. The program emphasizes both education and spiritual growth, helping participants develop a foundation of faith that will sustain them throughout life.

OCIA culminates in the celebration of the sacraments at the Easter Vigil, welcoming new members fully into the sacramental life of the Church. Beyond sacramental preparation, OCIA fosters lasting friendships and a strong sense of parish belonging. It is a journey of transformation, hope, and joy, inviting adults to become active, engaged members of our parish family.

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Baptism

Visit our Baptism page for more information. For adults, see our OCIA page.

The catechumen’s immersion into the water symbolizes Christ’s death from which they rise up and share in his resurrection into new life. Christ commanded his disciples to baptize in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and He affirms the necessity for salvation.

Parents of infants should be registered members of the parish for at least three months before beginning preparation for the sacrament, or they can provide a letter from their former parish. Please contact the Parish Office to verify your registration and schedule an interview. Infant baptism information classes are held monthly. Parents must attend a class and register prior with the Parish Office.

First Reconciliation - Children

Visit our First Reconciliation page for more information. For adults, see our OCIA page.

The whole power of the sacrament of reconciliation consists in restoring us to God’s grace and joining us with him in an intimate friendship” (Roman Catechism). “Reconciliation with God is thus the purpose and effect of this sacrament” (CCC 1468). After a period of faith formation of at least one year, a period of formal preparation for First Reconciliation begins the following year. First Reconciliation normally happens during the Lenten season, if the child is developmentally ready during their second grade year.

Confirmation/First Communion - Children

Visit our Confirmation / First Reconciliation page for more information.

Baptism, the Eucharist, and the sacrament of Confirmation together constitute the “sacraments of Christian initiation,” whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace (CCC 1285). The laying on of hands is recognized as the origin of the sacrament and as a continuation of the grace imparted at Pentecost. Confirmation imprints an indelible character on the Christian’s soul.

The principal fruit of receiving the Eucharist is an intimate union with Christ Jesus (CCC 1391). Indeed, the Lord said, “He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me and I in him” (John 6:56). What material food produces in our bodily life, Holy Communion achieves in our spiritual life (CCC 1392).

The following year, Confirmation/First Communion may happen during the Easter Octave for children who have completed the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Children must be enrolled in children’s faith formation classes or have attended a Catholic school for both 1st and 2nd grades. Children starting after 1st grade will need to complete two years of preparation and will have already received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. A copy of the candidate’s baptismal certificate is required.

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