Our Lady of the Rosary

Sacraments of the Catholic Church

The Sacraments are visible signs of God’s grace, instituted by Christ, and entrusted to the Church as channels of His divine life. Through these sacred rites, we encounter Christ Himself, receiving His presence, strength, and guidance as we journey in faith. The Catholic Church celebrates seven Sacraments, each serving as a means of grace that nourishes and deepens our relationship with God.

These Sacraments are grouped into three categories, each reflecting a unique aspect of our spiritual journey:

Sacraments of Initiation

These sacred rites welcome us into the Church, deepen our faith, and strengthen our relationship with God, laying the foundation for a life of grace and discipleship.

Baptism

Baptism is the first and foundational Sacrament of Christian life. It is through Baptism that we are cleansed from original sin, reborn as children of God, and welcomed into the Catholic Church. This Sacrament marks the beginning of our faith journey, uniting us with Christ and the Church community.

Baptism is not just a symbolic act; it is a sacrament of grace that imparts the Holy Spirit, initiating us into the life of faith. It is the gateway to the other Sacraments, as it prepares our souls to receive God’s continued blessings through the Church.

• When: Baptisms are celebrated in English on the 1st Sunday of each month and in Spanish on the 2nd Sunday of each month.
• Registration: Please visit the church and complete a registration form at least two weeks in advance.

Eucharist (First Holy Communion)

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life, as it is the true presence of Jesus Christ—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity—given to us as spiritual nourishment. Through the reception of Holy Communion, we are united more deeply with Christ and strengthened in our bond with the Church. This Sacrament renews and sustains our faith, providing grace to help us live according to God’s will.

For children, First Holy Communion is a sacred milestone in their faith journey. It is the first time they receive the Body and Blood of Christ, signifying their full participation in the life of the Church. Through careful preparation, they come to understand the significance of the Eucharist and the importance of approaching it with faith and reverence.

• Preparation: Children in our Faith Formation program typically receive First Communion in the 2nd grade.

Confirmation

Confirmation is the Sacrament that deepens and strengthens the grace received at Baptism. Through the anointing with sacred chrism and the laying on of hands by the bishop or priest, the Holy Spirit is bestowed upon the recipient, equipping them with the spiritual gifts necessary to live out their Catholic faith with courage and conviction. This Sacrament completes the initiation process, empowering individuals to be active witnesses of Christ in the world.

In Confirmation, we receive the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit—wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord—which help us grow in faith and make moral decisions guided by God’s grace. It strengthens our bond with the Church and commissions us to spread and defend the faith through our words and actions.Preparation: High school students can register in our Faith Formation program for Confirmation, which requires two years of preparation.

Sacraments of Healing

The Sacraments of Healing are God’s gifts of mercy and restoration, providing grace to strengthen us in times of spiritual weakness, suffering, and illness. These Sacraments not only bring forgiveness, renewal, and inner peace but also, in some cases, physical healing according to God’s will. They remind us of Christ’s deep compassion for the sick, the suffering, and the repentant, offering His grace to heal both the soul and the body.

Through these Sacraments, we experience the loving presence of Christ, who came to heal the brokenhearted and bind up their wounds (Psalm 147:3). They invite us to trust in God’s mercy and to draw closer to Him in faith, especially in moments of hardship and weakness.

Reconciliation (Confession/Penance) – Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we receive God’s mercy and forgiveness for our sins.

• Confession times: ????

Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick is a Sacrament of healing, grace, and spiritual strength given to those who are suffering from serious illness, facing major surgery, or nearing the end of life. It is a powerful sign of God’s compassion and love, bringing comfort, peace, and, when it is God’s will, physical healing.

Instituted by Christ, this Sacrament is rooted in James 5:14-15, which says:
“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”

The Anointing of the Sick is not only for those near death but for anyone facing serious illness, chronic suffering, or surgery. It can be received more than once, particularly if an illness progresses or worsens. The Sacrament brings strength, peace, courage, and sometimes physical healing, helping the individual unite their suffering with Christ and preparing them spiritually for whatever may come.

How the Sacrament is Celebrated

• The priest lays hands on the sick person, praying for their healing and strength.
• The priest anoints the forehead and hands with holy oil, invoking the power of the Holy Spirit.
• The Sacrament may be accompanied by the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist if possible.

Who Should Receive This Sacrament?

• Anyone facing a serious illness or a major medical procedure
• The elderly experiencing the challenges of aging
• Those suffering from chronic or debilitating conditions
• Individuals nearing the end of life (this should not be delayed until the final moments)

If you or a loved one is in need of this Sacrament, please contact the parish office to arrange for a priest to administer it. This is a profound moment of grace, bringing not only healing but also hope and trust in God’s plan.

• Requesting Anointing: If you or a loved one is in need of this Sacrament, please contact the priest.

Sacraments of Vocation & Service

The Sacraments of Vocation & Service are Holy Matrimony and Holy Orders—Sacraments through which individuals dedicate their lives to serving God and others in a unique and sacred way. These Sacraments are not only personal commitments but also callings from God, guiding individuals to live out their faith in service, love, and devotion.

Each of these Sacraments is a response to God’s invitation to build up the Church and serve His people. Whether through the sacred bond of marriage or through the lifelong commitment of priesthood or religious life, these Sacraments equip individuals with grace, strength, and guidance to fulfill their calling.

The two Sacraments of Vocation & Service are:

• Holy Matrimony (Marriage): A lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, reflecting Christ’s love for the Church and calling spouses to selfless love, fidelity, and openness to life.
• Holy Orders: The Sacrament through which men are ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops, dedicating their lives to serving God’s people through preaching, teaching, and administering the Sacraments.

Through these Sacraments, individuals embrace their mission in the world, whether by nurturing a family rooted in faith or by guiding the faithful as spiritual shepherds. They are profound expressions of commitment, sacrifice, and grace, helping to fulfill God’s divine plan.

If you feel called to either of these Sacraments or would like to learn more about preparation, please contact the parish office for guidance and support.

Marriage (Holy Matrimony)

• First Step: Couples should schedule an appointment with the priest before setting a wedding date.
• Preparation: At least six months of preparation is required.

Holy Orders

• If you feel called to the priesthood or diaconate, please speak with the priest for guidance.

For more information or to schedule a Sacrament, please contact the parish office.