The decision to receive a sacrament should only be made after careful consideration. To help in the decision making, please read the following information. 

Some Basic Principles:

• Sacraments involve a living relationship with Jesus Christ, and presume the gift of faith.
• Readiness is the criterion for the reception of a Sacrament.
• The celebration of Sacraments is the action of the community.
• The family has an essential role in the preparation for and celebration of a Sacrament.

Immediate preparation and reception of the Sacrament is done in the parish to which the family is registered and participating, since the pastor has the canonical right and obligation to administer the Sacraments to his parishioners.

Process of Preparation

Remote Preparation:
Is a “period of evangelization and systematic faith formation prior to the year of immediate preparation. This guideline is met through participation in the Catholic school or parish religious education program.”

The practice in our Diocese is two years of remote preparation. A student should be enrolled and actively participate in Faith Formation classes for two years prior to beginning immediate preparation for the Sacraments. This can be done in a parish program or in a Catholic school.

Immediate Preparation:
The process of immediate catechesis for Sacraments are FREE STANDING PROGRAMS.  This involves separate preparation from any faith formation program in which the candidate may participate. Whether the student attends a parish program or Catholic school, the Sacraments must be received in the parish to which the family belongs. A separate registration fee to cover the costs of books, retreats, speakers and other materials will be charged.

According to Diocesan guidelines, sacramental preparation requires further student and family involvement. Parent preparation meetings are an important part of this process, and therefore, attendance is required.