Baptism

Baptism is the initiation sacrament for bringing people into the life of the church; it is the gateway to the other sacraments.
“Baptism is birth into the new life in Christ. In accordance with the Lord’s will, it is necessary for salvation, as is the Church herself, which we enter by Baptism.” Catechism of the Catholic Church (1277)
Baptism is usually received during a baby’s first months. It is also received by older children and adults who were not baptized during infancy. To receive the sacrament, an appointment with our priest is necessary. Please contact the parish office for an appointment.

Eucharist

First Communion, or first Eucharist, follows Baptism and brings fuller participation in the Church – the Body of Christ. It allows baptized members to more fully participate in our Church liturgies.
“The Eucharist is the heart and the summit of the Church’s life, for in it Christ associates his Church and all her members with his sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving offered once for all on the cross to his Father; by this sacrifice he pours out the graces of salvation on his Body which is the Church.” Catechism of the Catholic Church (1407). In our parish, children usually prepare for and receive First Communion during their second grade year in Religious Education. Older children and adults who have not participated in the preparation process are also eligible for First Communion. Please contact the parish office for further information and specific requirements.

Confirmation

Confirmation is the third of the initiation sacraments, completing the cycle from Baptism and First Holy Communion. Confirmation strengthens our bond to the Holy Spirit and recalls the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
“Confirmation perfects Baptismal grace; it is the sacrament which gives the Holy Spirit in order to root us more deeply in the divine filiation, incorporate us more firmly into Christ, strengthen our bond with the Church, associate us more closely with her mission, and help us bear witness to the Christian faith in words accompanied by deeds.” Catechism of the Catholic Church (1316)
Preparation for Confirmation is part of the St. Thomas religious education program for students in their middle school years. Adult confirmation is part of the RCIA program. Please contact the parish office for further information.

Matrimony

The sacrament of Matrimony celebrates the union between a man and woman, and blesses their contract with each other for their lifetimes.
“The sacrament of Matrimony signifies the union of Christ and the Church. It gives spouses the grace to love each other with the love with which Christ has loved his Church; the grace of the sacrament thus perfects the human love of the spouses, strengthens their indissoluble unity, and sanctifies them on the way to eternal life. Catechism of the Catholic Church (1661)
Preparation for this sacrament requires several months. Parishioners should contact the parish office to set up an appointment with the administrator.