Sacramental Preparation

Baptismal Preparation:

Our Diocesan policy for the Baptism of children calls for a preparation that consists of a group meeting in the parish hall, with other parents, prior to the celebration of Baptism. All Baptisms take place within the celebration of one of our weekend Masses. To register for the next preparation session, please call the Parish during regular office hours.

Baptismal Preparation Team:

This is a team of men and women who are committed to the Diocesan policy concerning baptism. Team members facilitate the preparation meeting for families interested in having their child baptized. Training and support material is provided for the team members. Contact: Father Wayne (705-647-5035)

First Reconciliation (Confession):

In the fall months, young people in grade three begin preparing to receive the Sacrament of First Reconciliation. The preparation involves a school, parish and home component. There is a parent meeting to assist parents in their preparations. Children who do not attend ECCS take part in three Saturday morning sessions during the fall. There is also a retreat day for all children. Children receive their First Reconciliation during the Advent Season in a Parish celebration.

First Eucharist (Communion):

After preparing for and celebrating the Sacrament of Reconciliation, young people (in grade three and up) are welcome to prepare to receive the Sacrament of First Communion. The preparation involves a school, parish and home component. There is a parent meeting during the school year to assist parents in their preparations. Children who do not attend ECCS take part in three Saturday morning sessions during the winter months. There is also a retreat day for all children. Children receive their First Communion during the Easter Season as part of a family celebration. Children must first receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Confirmation:

Every second year young people in grades seven and eight are given an opportunity to participate in the Diocesan Program for Confirmation. The preparation involves a school, parish and home component. The young candidates are expected to participate in the Sunday celebration of Mass, six group meetings with their peers, a retreat afternoon and a community service project. Confirmation is celebrated during the Easter Season. The next preparation for Confirmation will begin in the fall of 2020.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA):

RCIA provides a process whereby person interested in the Catholic faith can learn more about our faith with the possibility of becoming full members of the Catholic Church. This process is also for those who have been baptized as Catholics and wish to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation, Eucharist and Penance. It is also open to Catholics who may wish a "refresher course" to deepen their faith. RCIA is a process that begins in October and continues until after Easter. During this period, candidates are provided with catechetical instruction and an opportunity to journey with others as they explore the Catholic faith.

Marriage:

Couples wishing to receive the Sacrament of Marriage are expected to give the Parish at least eight months notice. Couples should be free to marry (i.e. never previously married or have an annulment). Marriage preparation consists of: regularly scheduled meetings with the priest, completion of the FOCCUS questionnaire and participation in an Engaged Encounter weekend. Marriages, on Saturdays, are celebrated from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Sacrament of the Sick:

The Sacrament of the Sick is available to all Catholics who are: seriously ill, seriously weakened by advanced age or scheduled for serious surgery. The Sacrament of the Sick is an opportunity to receive God's grace in a special way. It can help those who receive the Sacrament to trust in God more, fight against temptation and anxiety and help them bear their suffering bravely. The Sacrament of the Sick should no longer be seen as exclusively a Sacrament for the dying. Anyone who would like to receive the Sacrament of the Sick should contact Fr. Wayne. There are also opportunities, during the year, to celebrate communally the Sacrament of the Sick.