Sacraments

All sacramental experiences involve the family in the preparation process. Parents also work with their children at home in the immediate preparation for a sacrament.

Infant Baptism

This is for families seeking Baptism for their infants or preschool children. Parents must be registered members of the parish for at least six months, attending Sunday worship on a regular basis, and attend the Baptismal preparation sessions. Four opportunities for Baptisms are held during the year. Godparents must be registered members in good standing in a Catholic church and actively practicing their faith. The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated at Sunday Liturgies. Dates for upcoming Baptism activities may be found here.

Baptism for Children of Catechetical Age

Those children who are of school age and have not been baptized are invited to participate in the catechumenate designed specifically for children. Parents and sponsors along with the children attend special learning sessions and participate in the various liturgical rites associated with the catechumenate. The Sacraments of Initiation, Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist are all received at the Easter Vigil.

Sacrament of Initiation for Adults

The process of entry into the Roman Catholic Church is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). It is for those seeking to join the Roman Catholic Faith Community. It is also open to Catholics returning to the faith after a lengthy absence, and to Catholics who have not yet celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation. Meetings begin in the fall of each year.

First Reconciliation (Penance)

The usual age for celebration of the Sacrament of First Reconciliation is the Second Grade (ages 7 to 8). The celebration occurs prior to the reception of First Eucharist. Parents must attend two meetings in the Fall, during which they are guided in how to work with their children at home in preparation for Sacrament. In January, parents and children must attend a Forgiveness Day of Reflection, which will end with the celebration of the Sacrament. The current schedules may be found here.

First Eucharist

Preparation for First Eucharist begins in the Winter and continues until after Easter, when children celebrate the Sacrament with our Parish Family during Mass after the Easter liturgical season. Parents must attend two meetings in Winter, during which they are guided in how to work with their children at home in preparation for the Sacrament. In April, parents and children must also attend a Bread-baking/Day of Reflection. The current schedules may be found here.

Reconciliation (Penance)

The sacrament is celebrated each Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., in the Reconciliation Room just off the Narthex adjacent to the Blessed Sacrament Chapel. The sacrament can also be arranged by appointment. Please contact our pastor. Communal Celebrations take place during the seasons of Advent and Lent and are announced in the parish bulletin.

Confirmation

To be eligible to receive this sacrament, teens must be involved in their 9th and 10th year of Christian Formation. The 10th year especially is remote preparation for this sacrament. The diocesan policy for reception of the sacrament is during the 11th or 12th year of high school. The program consists of large and small group learning experiences, sponsor sharing sessions, service projects, interviews and retreats. The process of preparation for Confirmation is an opportunity for a young person to reflect on their faith and to reaffirm and make a public commitment to celebrate the gift of the spirit in his or her life. The current schedule can be found here.

Matrimony

The covenant and holy bond of marriage is a sacrament established by Jesus Christ and His Church. It is a lifelong union of two mature adults of faith. To assist couples in preparing for this most serious commitment, the diocese stipulates a six-month period of preparation. For marriage to take place within the Incarnation Parish Community, one of the parties must be a registered member and regularly worship at Sunday Liturgy. Participation in a marriage preparation program is required. The preparation sessions are held periodically here. For further information, call Father Gregory. Do you need general information about Divorce or Annulment? If so, click here (courtesy of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Parish in Newport News).

Anointing of the Sick

No longer should Catholics wait until they are in danger of dying before they request this sacrament. One may celebrate the Sacrament of Anointing at the onset or during any serious illness. The sacrament may be celebrated before surgery and more than once during an illness. In the case of an emergency, call the parish office.