The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that “Sacraments are ‘powers that come forth’ from the Body of Christ, which is ever living and life-giving. They are actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are “the masterworks of God” in the new and everlasting covenant.” (1116).
As Catholics, we are privileged to have a rich sacramental life whereby we can receive sanctifying grace and experience the love of Jesus Christ in a special way. Sacraments are not a “thing” to be received, but a life changing event that draws us ever closer to Christ as we continue our journey of faith.
Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from original sin and reborn as children of God, becoming members of Christ’s Church, and sharing in His mission. To inquire about baptism, contact Kevin Welsh at ext. 132 or kevin@stanpr.org.
Eucharist
Families with children preparing for First Eucharist must be registered in the parish and participating in regular classes either in the Faith Formation program or a Catholic school. In addition, the child and parent attend sessions to prepare them for the reception of the sacrament. It is a diocesan policy that sacramental programs be a two-year process. For more information, please call Michaela Meyers ext. 133 or email her at michaela@stanpr.org.
Confirmation
Those who have been baptized continue on the path of Christian Initiation through the Sacrament of Confirmation, receiving the Holy Spirit whom the Lord sent upon the apostles on Pentecost. This giving of the Holy Spirit conforms believers more fully to Christ and strengthens them so that they may bear witness to the building up of his Body in faith and love. (Rite of Confirmation #1 and #2). Contact Youth Ministers Beth DeBella and Cliff Stodden at ext. 131.
Holy Orders
Those who receive the sacrament of Holy Orders are consecrated in Christ’s name “to feed the Church by the word and grace of God.” 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. For information on discerning a vocation to religious life, contact the Diocesan Vocations Office at 727-345-3452.
Marriage
The sacrament of Matrimony signifies and shares in Christ’s love for his Church, with Jesus becoming a third partner in the marriage. Because the Church wants to do all it can to help ensure a lifelong commitment, six months’ preparation time is required. To begin the marriage process, contact the parish office at (727) 273-8600.
Anointing of the Sick
Formerly known as Last Rites, the Anointing of the Sick provides healing and peace for those facing surgery, dealing with illness, the effects of old age and those facing death. Contact the parish office during the day. If there is an emergency at night or on the weekend, please call (727) 372-7460.
Reconciliation
In the Sacrament of Penance, the faithful “obtain from God’s mercy and pardon for having offended Him and at the same time reconciliation with the Church family which they have wounded by their sins and which by charity – example and prayer, seek their conversion. (Rite of Penance #4) Sacrament of Reconciliation is Saturdays: 2:30pm – 3:30pm and by appointment (call Fr. Krzysztof or Fr. George).
Information about Baptism, Reconciliation, and First Communion for children can be found at our Sacraments: Instruction & Preparation webpage.
