Sacramental Preparation
The Sacraments bring us many blessings from God. With each sacrament, we receive special graces that enables us to be empowered by the spirit to lead not only ourselves but others as well. The Sacraments transform us and help us to come to know and love God in a unique intimate way. Baptism, the Eucharist and Confirmation together constitute the “sacraments of Christian initiation."
Baptism
Baptism is the first of the three Sacraments of Initiation, the other two being the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Once baptized, a person becomes a member of the Church.
There are two preparation sessions, each between one and a half to two hours long, required before baptism. Contact the parish office to learn about upcoming preparation sessions.
EUcharist
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life, the Lord’s own sacrifice. Catholics are encouraged to receive the Eucharist regularly.
First Communion
Any baptized Catholic child who has reached the age of reason (seven years of age and attended religious education classes in the first grade and is now in the second grade) is eligible to receive the Sacrament.
Nativity of Our Lord prepares candidates for First Communion using Catechesis of the Good Shepherd. Contact Faith Formation for more information.
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. In the Diocese of Superior, the bishop has made a pastoral decision to confer the sacrament of Confirmation only on those in the eleventh grade and above, and preparation typically begins in tenth grade catechesis. Contact Faith Formation for more information.
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (commonly called Confession or Penance) is the method given by Christ to the Church by which individuals are freed from sins committed after receiving Baptism.
First Reconciliation preparation typically occurs as part of the preparation for First Communion.
Anointing of the Sick
Anointing of the Sick (formerly known as Extreme Unction or the Last Rites) is administered to bring spiritual and even physical strength during an illness, and near the time of death. It is a sacrament of healing and a prayer for physical and spiritual health. Contact the parish office to request this Sacrament.
Marriage
Sacramental marriage is a symbol of the divine union between Christ the Bridegroom, and His Church the Bride. As married Christians, open to the creation of new life and committed to our mutual salvation, we participate not only in God’s creative act but in the redemptive act of Christ. Contact the parish office to request this Sacrament.
Holy Orders
Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.
Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1536