The liturgical life of the Catholic Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments. There are seven sacraments in the Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders.
Prior to the Baptism of a child under the age of 7, an evening of instruction is required for parents and godparent who have not previously attended a class. Classes in English are held on the first Tuesday of every month in the reception room at 7 pm. Prior registration is required.
Requirements for Parents and Sponsors
One of the parents must be Catholic
Sponsors must be fully initiated in the Catholic Church (Baptized, Confirmed and recieved First Eucharist) and if married, must be married in the Catholic Church
The Eucharist is the memorial of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus; it is the Paschal Mystery. It is both a sacrifice and a meal. Christ instituted the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper.
For 1st Eucharist (Communion), it is necessary that the child be able to understand the Eucharist is not ordinary bread and wine, but the True Presence of Jesus in the form of the Body and Blood of Christ.
Responsibility of Parents
“Children’s preparation for first reception of the Eucharist begins in the home. The family has the most important role in communicating the Christian and human values that form the foundation for a child’s understanding of the Eucharist. Children who participate with their family in the Mass experience the Eucharistic mystery in an initial way and gradually learn to join with the liturgical assembly in prayer.” (National Directory for Catechesis no.36A, 3a.)
Requirements for the reception of 1st Eucharist (Communion)
Must have already been baptized.
Must be in at least the 2nd grade at the time of reception of the sacrament.
Must have completed 2 years of catechetical instruction at this or another Roman Catholic parish.
Must attend a retreat.
Must study the required prayers at home.
For more information, call the church office 214321-0454.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit once granted to the Apostles on Pentecost. Confirmation increases and deepens baptismal grace, unites us more firmly to Christ, increases the seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit in us, makes the bond with the Church more perfectly and gives us the strength of the Holy Spirit to spread and defend our faith.
Requirements for the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation
Must have a personal desire to prepare and receive this sacrament.
No child will receive this Sacrament until they are in the eighth grade or higher and attend two years of faith formation with good attendance at this or another Roman Catholic parish (proof from other parish is required).
For more information, call the church office.
Those wishing to marry should meet and consult with the parish priest or deacon at least six months prior to the proposed wedding date.
For more information, call the church office 214-321-0454.
Each year on Holy Saturday during the Easter Vigil, thousands are baptized into the Catholic Church in the United States. Parishes welcome these new Catholics through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
What is the RCIA?
The Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) is a gradual process of conversion and initiation into the Catholic Christian community providing individuals the space to encounter God and respond to His invitation to a new way of life in the Catholic faith. Grounded in a respect for the personal faith journey of each individual, the RCIA provides an extended period of prayer, study, and fellowship in which each individual has the opportunity to grow in relationship with God and the parish community.
Who is the RCIA for?
How does the RCIA work?
In the RCIA individuals reflect and learn about what is means to be a part of the Catholic Christian community – who we are, what we believe, how we celebrate and pray, how we relate with one another and with God. Based on the gradual transformation of each individual, the RCIA accompanies and celebrates the journey to faith of each individual.
The process begins with a period of inquiry for those who have felt called to consider the Catholic faith. Here you will find an open space to ask questions about what Catholics hold and believe while meeting others striving to live Gospel values. Know that initial inquiry does not necessarily commit you to initiation.
Where can I find out more information?
Every parish in the archdiocese offers this spiritual formation journey for those seeking to become Catholic or further their Catholic faith. If you would like to learn more, please contact Elizabeth Torres 214-321-0454, ext 2008