Sacramental Preparation

Baptism Preparation

Baptism incorporates us into Christ and forms us into God’s people. It is the first sacrament of initiation. The Catholic Church baptizes people of all ages -- from infants to adults. To help prepare individuals and families for this sacrament, the Church offers various forms of formation.

At St. Matthias families choosing to baptize their infant are invited to attend a preparation class which offers insight and guidance concerning the Sacrament of Baptism. Classes are held quarterly and Baptisms are celebrated twice per month except during Lent.

Confirmation

Confirmation represents the fullness of Christian Initiation, and our candidates begin their two-year preparation in the seventh grade as part of our ongoing religious education program. Confirmation is also a sacrament of initiation and helps to strengthen the faith instilled at Baptism. Through an anointing with special oil (chrism) and a laying on of hands, the life of the Holy Spirit within us is strengthened. Classes include study, service, retreat and worship. Registration takes place in the spring/summer.

First Eucharist

Eucharist is the sacrament that welcomes the baptized to the Table of the Lord to receive Christ’s Body and Blood. In this sacrament we remember the action of Jesus at the Last Supper when he blessed and broke the bread and shared it with his disciples. The Eucharist is an act of thanksgiving which is celebrated in communion with one another, most often at the weekend liturgy.

First Penance

Penance is the sacrament that celebrates the forgiving love of God. It is also called the sacrament of reconciliation because through it we acknowledge and confess our sins and are reconciled to both God and one another.

Preparation for First Reconciliation involves children in grade two and older along with their families. The parish provides ongoing support that includes reflection, rituals, retreat and home study. First Reconciliation is received prior to First Communion

Marriage Ministry

The purpose of Marriage Ministry is to prepare engaged couples for a strong Catholic Christian marriage. Weekend sessions are held twice a year. The team’s goal is to also provide support to all marriages through periodic enrichment opportunities.

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