Sacraments
Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers of this mission.
For Infant Baptisms (before 2nd grade)
You are encouraged to begin this process before your baby is born. Infant Baptisms require parents and sponsors to attend one class of instruction prior to Baptism. Classes are held once a month and rotate between St. Anthony’s Church in Beckemeyer, and St. Dominic and St. Augustine Churches in Breese. Appointments are necessary, please call the parish office to schedule.
For School-Age Child Baptism (2nd Grade to about age 15)
Minimum 2 years in Youth Faith Formation (YFF)
For Adult Baptism
Baptism is conducted through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) program. The RCIA is the process in which a person who is not baptized or baptized in another faith, journeys with other candidates to be fully initiated in the Catholic faith.
Confirmation
8th Graders attending All Saints Academy or YFF Classes and fulfilling the requirements
At Confirmation we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and confirm our baptismal promises and is celebrated annually during the Easter season. Confirmation for youth generally takes place during the 8th grade year. In order to be confirmed, an individual must participate for at least 2 years of preparation through the Youth Faith Formation.
8th graders attending All Saints Academy fulfills this 2-year requirement. Students are also required to attend a Luke 18 retreat as part of their preparation. This retreat is held sometime between the middle of January and the first part of February.
First Holy Communion
One of the most joyous times in a Catholic’s faith journey is receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ for the first time. Children usually prepare for First Holy Communion during second grade, after having already received a year of religious education.
Marriage
The sacrament of marriage is a visible sign of God’s love for the Church. When a man and woman are married in the Church, they receive the grace needed for a lifelong bond of unity. Couples preparing for marriage are to provide notification of at least six months in advance to be given to the parish office or pastor.
Catholic Annulments: Often individuals are not fully participating in the life of the Church because of divorce and remarriage. Others, civilly divorced, have questions regarding the previous marriage. Please call the Pastor to discuss the status and possibilities of these particular situations.
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation includes examining our conscience, the act of confessing sins and asking for forgiveness, receiving absolution and doing penance. First Reconciliation is scheduled prior to First Eucharist. Seasonal penance services are held throughout the year. Reconciliation is held on Saturdays at 3:30 at St. Augustine in Breese, or by appointment.
Anointing Of The Sick
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick gives strength and support and can be administered to anyone struggling with an illness. The Anointing of the Sick is a ritual of healing appropriate not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual sickness. Good times to consider requesting the anointing of the sick before any serious surgery or following the diagnosis of a serious medical condition. For hospital or bed-bound patients or at or near the time of death please contact the parish or rectory office.
Holy Orders
Few things are more beautiful than dedicating your life to the service of God, through serving others. God calls us in different ways. If you feel that God is calling you and you are open to serving the Lord in this special and beautiful way please contact the Priest or Deacon for some initial guidance and assistance in the process of discernment.