Sacraments
BAPTISM
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water and in the word.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1213
The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on the first and third Sunday of the month at 11:30 AM. It may also be celebrated within Mass at the request of the family. To schedule a baptism, please contact the parish office, or email Rose Ann Westerfer at rwesterfer@olastrafford.org.
RECONCILIATION
Christ instituted the sacrament of Penance for all sinful members of His Church: above all for those who, since Baptism, have fallen into grave sin, and have thus lost their baptismal grace and wounded ecclesial communion. It is to them that the sacrament of Penance offers a new possibility to convert and to recover the grace of justification. The Fathers of the Church present this sacrament as “the second plank [of salvation] after the shipwreck which is the loss of grace.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1446
Without being strictly necessary, confession of everyday faults (venial sins) is nevertheless strongly recommended by the Church. Indeed the regular confession of our venial sins helps us form our conscience, fight against evil tendencies, let ourselves be healed by Christ and progress in the life of the Spirit. By receiving more frequently through this sacrament the gift of the Father’s mercy, we are spurred to be merciful as He is merciful. Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1458
Confessions are regularly heard every Saturday, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM, or by appointment. Appointments can be made by calling the parish office.
EUCHARIST
The sacrament of first eucharist is typically celebrated when a child is in second grade, and enrolled in our Parish Religious Education Program (PREP). For more information, please visit [link]
CONFIRMATION
The sacrament of confirmation is typically celebrated when a child is in 7th grade, and enrolled in our Parish Religious Education Program (PREP). For more information, please visit [link]
MARRIAGE
The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament. Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1601
Engaged couples should notify the parish as soon as possible about their intended marriage, but not less than six months prior to the date of the marriage. It is advisable to notify the parish office as far in advance as possible, so as to provide sufficient time for the many details of preparation. When the couple has contacted the parish office (610-688-1178) a booklet outlining all the requirements of the Church and parish will be provided for your use and explained in detail.
Marriages that are held on Saturday begin at 1:00 PM, 1:30 PM or 2:00 PM. If held on another day (e.g., Friday evening) the time will be decided by the priest and couple.