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Seven Sacraments

Baptism

Baptism is the first of the seven Sacraments that God has given to us as visible manifestations of his work and presence in our lives.

Many Catholics receive the sacrament of baptism as infants, in the presence of his or her parents and godparents.​

Through the saving waters of baptism, we are washed clean from the stain of original sin (caused by the sin of Adam and Eve). The grace we receive in baptism also makes us children of God the Father, welcomes us into the Catholic Church, and pours the Holy Spirit into our hearts.

Penance

The Sacrament of Penance, also known as confession or reconciliation, is a healing sacrament by which we experience the mercy of God. Through the ministry of a priest, we honestly confess our sins to Jesus and then receive his forgiveness and mercy. Regular confession brings healing to our hearts and restores our relationship with God and the community.

Catholics are always welcome to return to this sacrament, whether it has been two weeks or two decades since their last confession. Confession times are listed on our website, and we invite you to participate as often as possible.

If you would like to receive the Sacrament of Penance, please come to the church at the times listed on our website or contact the parish office to schedule an appointment.

Eucharist

The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist (Holy Communion) is “the source and summit of the Christian life.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324). During the Mass, we gather around the Lord’s table and remember Christ’s Passion, sacrifice on the cross, His Resurrection, and His Ascension as Jesus instructed us during the Last Supper.

As Catholics, we believe in transubstantiation – the transformation of bread and wine into the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. We ask that only “properly disposed” Catholics receive Holy Communion. This means that the receiving of Jesus’ Body and Blood is set aside for Catholics who are in right relationship with God and with one another. The intention here is not to dissuade anyone from receiving Communion; rather, it is an invitation to heal what is broken, creating a suitable environment for Jesus. The Church recommends going to Confession regularly prior to receiving Communion during Mass.

Confirmation

Every Sunday we hear the words, “Go and proclaim the Gospel of the Lord.” Embarking on Mission takes a strong faith and some additional tools. ..We will help you pack your backpack with the tools and maps needed to bring your friends, family and even strangers into God’s great plan of salvation. It’s all part and parcel of being a disciple of Christ.

Marriage

The Sacrament of Matrimony, or marriage, is a unique sacrament because it is the man and the woman that mutually administers the sacrament upon each other in the presence of a priest or deacon and other witnesses.

It is a sacred covenant, a public promise made by the husband and the wife to be true to each other until death parts them. In order for a marriage to be valid, the couple must be entering into the covenant out of their own free will, without fear or coercion. They are also asked to honour and be true to each other for the rest of their lives, as well as to accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and His Church.

Holy Orders

Every Sunday we hear the words, “Go and proclaim the Gospel of the Lord.” Embarking on Mission takes a strong faith and some additional tools. ..We will help you pack your backpack with the tools and maps needed to bring your friends, family and even strangers into God’s great plan of salvation. It’s all part and parcel of being a disciple of Christ.

Anointing of the Sick

The Sacrament of Matrimony, or marriage, is a unique sacrament because it is the man and the woman that mutually administers the sacrament upon each other in the presence of a priest or deacon and other witnesses.

It is a sacred covenant, a public promise made by the husband and the wife to be true to each other until death parts them. In order for a marriage to be valid, the couple must be entering into the covenant out of their own free will, without fear or coercion. They are also asked to honour and be true to each other for the rest of their lives, as well as to accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and His Church.