Sacramental Preparation

Do you remember a time when the baptismal font was placed in a separate little area, often away from the worship area? And baptisms were never celebrated during Mass? Why is the font the first thing we see as we enter the church? Why are baptisms now celebrated during Mass?

At the moment of our baptism we become members of the Body of Christ in a very special and beautiful way. Through baptism, we have the privilege and responsibility of growing in our faith.

Experience a Baptism Celebration at St. John's

Part of this growth involves celebrating the sacraments of reconciliation, 1st Eucharist, and Confirmation. And in each case, we first go back to our roots of baptism and are reminded of all that entails.

Generally, children in the 2nd grade prepare for their first reconciliation from September to January, and for their first communion from January to April. Preparation for both consists of parent meetings and a learning center. In addition, parents and children attend a retreat prior to first communion.

All children, both public school and Catholic School need to register if they will be preparing for 1st Reconciliation, 1st Eucharist, or Confirmation.

Sacramental preparation is a parish faith formation activity.

1st Reconciliation

“Come now, let us talk this over, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.”- Isaiah 1:18

God’s forgiving, healing love helps us to grow and become sharers in the ministry of reconciliation. As Christian parents, we lay the foundation of this ministry by giving unconditional love, forgiveness and reconciliation to our children. And as our children experience this in our care, they begin to glimpse the true nature of the love of God and the promise of lasting peace and happiness, which is God’s promise to us.

1st Eucharist

These are the signs that we have become Christians and joined the family of God. They are called the sacraments of initiation. Baptism and Confirmation are a sign of our birth as a Christian and can never be repeated. The Eucharist – or Mass – is the continual celebration of our Christian life. - “Your Child’s First Communion”, Liguori

The day of first Holy Communion is the beginning of a new journey with Jesus. Beginning on this day, we are able to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, the Real Presence of Jesus, every day if we so choose. We are certainly encouraged to partake of this sacred feast at least weekly. As we do so, we participate in a special grace that helps us in our daily walk through life. Eucharist also helps us to understand that our walk with Jesus is truly a journey of life that never ends.

Confirmation

Students in 9 th grade begin their journey toward confirmation in small groups that meet in the home monthly. 10 th grade students continue their small group meetings in the home, with a strong emphasis on preparation for confirmation. Confirmation is celebrated in the spring of 10 th grade.

Faith Formation Questions?

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call Maggie DeStazio at 288-7372, ext. 15. To register in any sacramental program, fill out the registration form.