Sacraments of Initiation

Preparing for Baptism
The sacrament by which one becomes a Christian.

Become a Catholic / RCIA
Adults and adolescents who are seeking to join the Catholic Church.

Preparing for Confirmation / Adult Confirmation
The sacrament of confirmation complements baptism, while both lead to the Eucharist.

Preparing for Eucharist
Those who gather are fed by the Word and by the Body and Blood of Christ.

Sacraments of Healing

Preparing for Reconciliation
A Christian is to be reconciled with God and the community through the sacrament of reconciliation.

Anointing for the Sick
To support and strengthen those who are sick.

Sacraments of Vocation
 

Preparing for Marriage
The love between two people is a gift from God.

Holy Orders
Those who are called to ordained ministry.

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Preparing for Baptism
Since the earliest of times, baptism has been administered to children, for it is a grace and a gift of God that does not presuppose any human merit; children are baptized in the faith of the Church. Entry into Christian life gives access to true freedom. —Catechism of the Catholic Church #1282

We want to welcome parents… whether the birth parents, or adoptive parents, whether couples or a single parent. Whether their child is an infant or is already exploring their new world. Whether as parents their faith is strong or they are just beginning to make it their own. Whether they as a family share the same religious background or they come from very different religious traditions.

Saint Lawrence provides one evening of catechesis on the sacrament of baptism especially for parents so that they might enter more deeply into the experience of baptism and, thereby, participate more fully and consciously in the baptism of their child or children. Related to the above, parents receive additional catechesis in the role of parents in the formation of children and the vision of the family as the domestic Church. —Lumen Gentium, #11

Purpose of the Program

To provide an opportunity for parents who have requested baptism for their child to take time out to reflect on their own journey of faith and articulate how they experience God in their lives.
To encourage parents to share their understanding of the sacrament of baptism as a community celebration through a group reflection on the symbols of the sacrament.
To afford parents the opportunity to meet and interact with other families in the parish and thereby strengthen their sense of belonging to the community.
To affirm and assist the parents in their role as "primary educators" of their children. (National Catechetical Directory, #212)
To offer both prayer and the support of the parish community to the parents as they approach the same community seeking baptism for their children.
The threshold of all sacraments is baptism. In this sacrament, people are washed from everything that stands between them and perfect union with God; symbolically they die with Christ in order to rise with him; and they are born into the communion of the church.

Preparation
The following catechetical considerations are offered for the direction of those involved in the preparation of families for baptism. The National Catechetical Directory, The Code of Canon Law and the Catechism of the Catholic Church are recommended as resources.


I. Catechesis of Parents and Godparents
Catechesis for baptism is directed primarily toward adults—adult candidates for baptism and the parents/godparents of infants who are to be baptized. According to the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), catechumens (those unbaptized) proceed through the stages of evangelization, catechumenate, purification and enlightenment, and mystagogia or post-baptismal catechesis. —National Catechetical Directory #117

Before the celebration of the sacrament, it is of great importance that parents, moved by their own faith or with the help of friends or other members of the community, should prepare to take part in the rite with understanding. They should be provided with suitable means such as books, instructions, and catechisms written for families. —Rite of Baptism for Children #5 § I

The parents of a child who is to be baptized, and those who are to undertake the office of godparent, are to be suitably instructed on the meaning of the sacrament and the obligations attached to it. The parish priest is to see to it that either he or others duly prepare the parents, by means of pastoral advice and indeed by prayer together; a number of families may be brought together for this purpose. —The Code of Canon Law #851 §2


2. The Role of the Community
Baptismal catechesis involves the community of the faithful, who share their faith with those being catechized. Adult catechumens and the parents of children to be baptized alike need the community's prayers, witness and support. Preparation for the baptism of infants is a 'teachable moment,' when the parish community can encourage parents to re-examine the meaning which faith has in their lives. In offering catechesis to parents and godparents, the Church shows its love for and eagerness to support them as well as their children. —National Catechetical Directory # 117

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Becoming a Catholic / RCIA
 

History
The New Testament does not provide detailed rituals for the initiation of new members into the community. The rites of initiation were developed gradually and in a diverse manner throughout Christendom. By the late third and early fourth centuries, the rites of Christian initiation were very much established. Important to the process was the time of preparation and discernment, which were articulated in a series of rituals spread over a long period of time. The actual initiation, which was celebrated during the Easter Vigil or on Epiphany, involved immersion in water, a generous anointing with oil and a sharing in the Eucharistic banquet.

The sixth and seventh centuries brought the decline in the ritual as infant baptism became the norm and the rituals became privatized, minimized and separated into Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.

The second Vatican Council returned to the great baptismal period of the Church (3rd-4th century) and reintroduced the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) with its lavish rituals. Baptism of adults again became the norm after which infant baptism was modeled.

Theology
Adults who are seeking to join the Catholic Church are brought in through the rites of Christian initiation of adults. Those who have not been baptized are prepared for the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). Those who were previously baptized are prepared to receive the sacraments of confirmation and Eucharist.

Becoming a Catholic
Do you want to become a Roman Catholic? Then order RCIA may be for you… Are you a member of another faith and wish to know more about the Catholic faith? Are you an adult who was never baptized or never receive First Communion or confirmation? Do you wish to be a fully initiated member of the Catholic Church? Are you a fully initiated Catholic who would like to work with those entering the Catholic faith? The answer to all of these questions is RCIA! (This is not the process for those baptized Catholics who missed out on confirmation.)

What is RCIA? The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is a process of study, exploration, and faith formation, with specific liturgical and para liturgical rites, for seekers and inquirers. Seekers and Inquirers are non-baptized adults who desire to be fully initiated into the Roman Catholic Church and/or baptized adult Christians who desire full communion in the Roman Catholic Church.

Adults or older children who have not been baptized and desire to join the Church are invited into the ancient celebration of the Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults. During this process, which is marked by regular ritual acts, participants are introduced to the liturgy, the teachings and the life of the Catholic Church.

Adults or older children who were baptized in another Christian denomination prepare in a similar way for the sacraments of confirmation and the Eucharist during their reception into the Catholic Church.

Preparation
RCIA is a collaborative process or study, exploration and faith formation for non-baptized adults interested in membership in the Catholic Church, as well as previously baptized Christians who wish to be fully initiated into the Catholic Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Communion and Confirmation.

A team that includes sponsor, catechist and hospitality positions carries out the RCIA ministry. Ministry in the RCIA involves guiding, supporting and instructing those seeking to become members of our Catholic community. Participation in the RCIA process involves several activities i.e. sponsor, catechist, team sharing. Team members share their faith with inquiring adults who are seeking more information about the Catholic Church, many of whom seek to celebrate one or more of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation.

Classes
If you are interested in joining the RCIA, either as an inquiring adult interested in becoming a member of the Church or as a part of the RCIA team. Team members meet Tuesday evenings from September to June for approximately two and a half hours to share their faith with those who are seeking and inquiring. Training and support are provided through ongoing team meetings. Please contact us for more information.

Celebration
The Rites of Christian Initiation of Adults are celebrated throughout the year as needed.

Rite of Christian Initiation for Children / RCIC
The Rite of Christian Initiation for Children is specially designed to bring children into the Catholic Church. Families at Saint Lawrence gather together for instruction for several months and children are fully initiated into the Church on Holy Saturday or baptized at another time with older children. The process of preparation occurs from October through April.

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Preparing for Confirmation / Adult Confirmation

Preparing for Confirmation
After having been baptized in water and received into the Church of Christ, people are anointed with the oil of salvation as they receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit in order to more fully participate in the life of the Church.

Preparation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is an important step in the life of Catholics and we are delighted that you are considering taking this faith journey.

Each year approximately fifty youths and adults participate in the Rite of Confirmation. Many of the people remain friends after the formal preparation for the sacrament is complete. Preparation for the sacrament requires the full participation through regular attendance of the confirmation classes and by discussion and reflection on the teachings of the Church. At Saint Lawrence, this preparation is open to any youth who has reached at least tenth grade, and to all adults. We invite you to take this journey and enter into the Catholic life more fully.

Through Confirmation you receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, which helps us be more like Christ in bearing witness to the world. For some, this may mean ministries in the Church. For others, the Holy Spirit calls us to transform society, often through serving others. Youths and adults in our parish have served food and mopped floors in soup kitchens, pounded nails and painted walls with Habitat for Humanity, and planted trees to improve the local neighborhoods.

Confirmation at Saint Lawrence involves being an active member of the Saint Lawrence community and a formed Catholic. As with the other Sacraments of Initiation, Confirmation involves joining a community of Catholics. It is also a time to understand the teachings of Christ more fully with specific attention to preparation for the sacrament. Communities and lasting relationships are built over time, and knowledge of the liturgy requires participation and time for reflection.

Often, youths and adults come to the Confirmation program with all sorts of reasons and from all walks of life. The reasons for being involved vary from: “My parents are forcing me,” “I want to be more involved in the Church,” to “I want to learn more about my faith.” Each of our faith journeys is unique. We encourage you to think about your involvement with your faith community of Saint Lawrence. Think about not just what you know, or even what you have experienced, but about the person you want to be. Begin by reflecting on the following questions:

How do I imitate Christ in embracing the beatitudes?
How do I listen to and meditate on the Word of God?
How do I spread love to the world, serve the poor and suffering, work for justice in my school, community, and church?
How have I been engaged in the lifelong process of being formed in faith?
How do I participate in the sacramental life of the Church?
What is my prayer life like? How do I integrate an awareness of God’s movement in my life with my action?

Some expectations before beginning the preparation process

Be an active and formed Catholic.
Establish the habit of attending and participating consistently at Sunday worship.
Get to know the parish through community activities and formation classes.
Get involved in volunteering in the community.

All candidates are required to have a sponsor who is Catholic and a member of the parish community. A sponsor is called to be a guide and companion for the confirmation candidate. A sponsor will be:

a participant in the scheduled sessions throughout the process.
a participant in the rite.
a source of information about Catholic traditions.
a guide to parish activities.

Classes
The confirmation preparation program is offered twice a year. Preparation begins with a weekend retreat. Candidates choose either fall or winter sessions. It is expected that you will attend every meeting and that you will prepare for each meeting by both personal prayer and the required readings. Please contact us for more information.

Celebrations
Candidates who have been properly prepared for the sacrament of confirmation are invited to celebrate the sacrament at the church during a special confirmation liturgy at which one of the bishops presides.

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Preparing for Eucharist

Preparing for First Eucharist
The celebration of the Eucharist is at the heart of the life of the Church. The Christian community gathers to celebrate the mystery of God’s love as it is revealed in the sacred Scriptures and in the sacrificial meal. Those who gather are fed by the Word and by the Body and Blood of Christ.

Preparation
Preparation for First Eucharist is accomplished through a combination of home and parish preparation sessions. Children celebrate the sacrament when parents, child and the ministry coordinator agree the child is ready. This usually occurs in the second or third grade.

Classes
Orientation is in the late fall with preparation beginning formally in January. Please contact us for more information.

Celebration
Children celebrate the sacrament in its fullness and received Communion for the first time at a special celebration of the Eucharist on a Sunday afternoon in May.

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Preparing for Reconciliation

Reconciliation
When the perfect union with God and the Church has been ruptured by an act of sin, a Christian is to be reconciled with God and the community through the sacrament of reconciliation. The early Church refers to this sacrament as a mini-baptism because it washes away sins and returns a person to full union with the Church.

Preparation
Preparation for First Reconciliation may be before, with or after receipt of First Eucharist. Preparation is accomplished through parish and home activities. Children celebrate the sacrament when parent, child and a ministry coordinator agree the child is ready. Please contact us for more information.

Classes
First Reconciliation orientation is in late Fall with formal preparation beginning in January. Please contact us for more information.

Celebration
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated every Saturday between 9:00am and 10:00am in the Reconciliation chapel or by appointment. Twice a year, during Advent and Lent, a prayer service is offered during which participants are invited to the individual celebration of the sacrament.

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Anointing for the Sick

Anointing of the Sick
In order to support and strengthen those who are sick, the Church gathers to pray and to anoint those who are ailing with the healing oil of the sick. This oil symbolizes the presence of God at a time of great physical and emotional need and assures the recipient of God’s love and healing presence in order to give strength and hope.

Preparation
Any baptized Catholic who is dangerously ill and has sufficient reason to be comforted by the sacrament may receive this sacrament. Children dealing with chronic or serious illness may be anointed (if they have sufficient use of reason); elderly persons may be anointed if they are in weak condition although no dangerous illness is present. Those struggling with mental, emotional illness may seek the sacrament; persons anticipating serious surgery are candidates for the sacrament as well. Those who experience severe chronic and/or debilitating illness are also encouraged to receive the sacrament.

Celebration
We celebrate this sacrament the first Saturday of each month immediately following the 5:00pm Eucharist. Anyone who is suffering from an illness or who will be undergoing surgery or any other medical procedure is invited to attend this mass with family and friends. We will pray for patience, strength and good health and we will anoint those who are in need with the oil of the sick. This sacrament can also be celebrated according to individual needs. Please contact us for more information.

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Preparation for Marriage

Marriage
The love between two people is a gift from God. The commitment two people make to be together for the rest of their lives and to accept children from God is sealed before the community and God during the sacrament of marriage.

Preparation
The Saint Lawrence prepares more than 100 engaged couples each year for the Sacrament of Marriage. We receive many requests for weddings here since we are a downtown, centrally located and a beautiful church. However, since sacraments are parish celebrations the bride or the groom must be a registered member of the Saint Lawrence parish community for at least six months before we can secure a wedding date.

Marriage preparation at the Saint Lawrence provides an opportunity for reflection and discernment on the sacramental and vocational nature of the life-long commitment to marriage. This program fulfills the standard marriage preparation requirement for Archdioceses in the United States.

The Saint Lawrence is committed to doing all we can to make sure that couples are prepared for this important, holy and life-long commitment. We offer a marriage preparation program designed to make sure couples have discussed all aspects of marriage and are prepared from a spiritual, relational and practical point of view, not just for the wedding day. We expect couples to begin marriage preparation at least ten months to one year before their wedding.

Our preparation includes:

Welcome meeting
Administration of a pre-marriage inventory
Meetings with a parish mentor couple
A daylong temperament retreat
Wedding liturgy workshop
Consultations with a wedding liturgy planner and/or wedding coordinator
Production of a wedding leaflet/program
Meeting with priest/presider
Wedding rehearsal
Parish Coordinator on day of wedding

The Saint Lawrence charges a marriage preparation fee of $600 which includes most aspects of the preparation costs. $600 is due to secure the wedding date and one-half ($300) is refundable if the wedding is canceled. For more information about weddings at the Saint Lawrence, please contact us for more information.

Workshops and Seminars
The Marriage Preparation and Enrichment Program meets the needs of engaged couples, married couples, and couples involved in serious dating relationships. The programs are available to all parishioners. Please contact us for more information.

Celebrations
The Sacrament of Marriage is celebrated on Fridays at 5:00pm and on Saturdays at 12:00 noon and 3:00pm (except during Advent or Lent)

MARRIAGE ENRICHMENT
It is important that married couples do those important things that keep their marriages alive and healthy. Dedicating time together for ongoing growth and understanding, prayer, good communication and fun are all necessary tools. Saint Lawrence offers a variety of enrichment events for already married couples. We routinely offer:

Remarriage/Blended Family Workshops

Since Remarriages have many unique issues, it is important for anyone who has been married before or anyone considering marrying someone who has been previously married to attend this workshop. Closure of prior relationships, children, loyalties, step parenting, former spouses, finances, making the couple relationship primary are just some of the topics covered.

Spiritual Differences Workshops

The Saint Lawrence offers a workshop for couples of two different religious backgrounds. How can couples still be united spiritually? How will we worship together? How will we raise our children? These are a few of the areas talked about in this helpful workshop.

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Holy Orders

Holy Orders
People who believe they are called to ordained ministry or to the religious life may contact us for more information.

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