The Sacraments are sacred and visible signs established for us by Jesus to give us grace, the undeserved, yet unfailing gift of God’s love. They are not something to prepare for and achieve but rather sources of continual nourishment and healing. A supportive family faith environment is important for sacramental grace to take root and grow deeply.
When preparing to complete the Sacraments of Initiation (First Reconciliation/Eucharist and Confirmation), there are three components to consider. Each is vital and builds on the other.
- INTEGRATED FAITH LIFE – It is vital that children are participating in Sunday Mass, liturgical and parish life with their families. This instills the importance and relevance of faith in their lives. This is where all families should begin.
- FOUNDATIONAL FORMATION - Preparing for these sacraments is a process spanning several years creating a faith foundation typically received through active participation in parish family faith sessions, specific Home School programs or Catholic School the year prior and the current year of Sacrament preparation. This helps the families add catechesis to their children’s faith formation.
- SPECIFIC SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION – Typically this occurs after at least 2 years of faith formation of some kind. Families participate in specific, focused, preparation for each sacrament. NOTE: Sacraments are celebrated within the context of the parish community. Therefore, all parish families participate in this final preparation together, regardless of where or how the Foundational Formation is received.
We will help parents determine the best path forward for lifelong faith in their families.
