The Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are external signs, communicated through ritual, that bestow grace, that is, the life of God.
Baptism
The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus. Before starting his public ministry, Jesus submitted himself to the baptism given by John the Baptist. The waters did not purify Him; He cleansed the waters . . . Jesus did not need to be baptized because He was totally faithful to the will of his Father and free from sin. However, H wanted to show His solidarity with human beings in order to reconcile them to the Father. By commanding His disciples to baptize all nations, He established the means by which people would die to sin – original and actual – and begin to live a new life with God. In Baptism, the Holy Spirit moves us to answer Christ’s call to holiness. In Baptism, we are asked to walk by the light of Christ and to trust in his wisdom. We are invited to submit our hearts to Christ with ever deeper love.
Reconciliation
Preparations for First Reconciliation are coordinated by the Director of Religious Education. Children are required to have one full year of religious instruction prior to the year in which they expect to celebrate Sacraments.
Eucharist
Preparations for First Holy Communion are coordinated through the Director of Religious Education. Children required to have one full year of religious instruction prior to the year in which they expect to celebrate Sacraments.
Confirmation
Preparations for Confirmation are coordinated through the Director of Religious Education. Children required to have one full year of religious instruction prior to the year in which they expect to celebrate Sacraments.
Holy Orders
Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a Christian man is ordained, or configured, to Jesus Christ in a unique way to perpetuate Our Lord’s ministry here on earth. In doing so, the ordained minister promises to serve God and lead His people to holiness, primarily through the administration of the sacraments (especially the Holy Eucharist) and by proclaiming the Gospel.
Holy Matrimony
To be married at Saint Cecilia Roman Catholic Church, at least one party must be a registered and active parishioner. Couples are required to meet with a parish priest to discuss marriage preparation. Please call the Parish Office at least six months in advance to reserve the church.
Anointing of the Sick
Anointing of the Sick, also known as Extreme Unction or Last Rites when combined with Confession and last Holy Eucharist (or Viaticum), is a Sacrament of healing for those who are sick unto death.