Sacraments

 

Baptism

In the Sacrament of Baptism, the Church welcomes our newest and youngest members of the parish community. A special class is offered to parents who wish to have their child baptized. This class focuses on the Sacrament of Baptism, and the roles and responsibilities of the parents and community which welcomes the child. Parents must be registered parishioners for at least three months prior to their child's baptism. Baptisms are celebrated on Saturday afternoons at 3:30 PM, and on Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM. Catholic Godparents must be mature, practicing Catholics at least 16 years of age. The Godparent must have received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. A Christian friend or relative who is not Catholic may act as a witness. The Christian witness should be a person of active faith, a follower of Jesus Christ. Call the Church Office to make arrangements for Baptism.

First Eucharist

Second graders who have completed at least one year of religious instruction will be prepared for First Eucharist and Reconciliation through the Religious Education Program at Our Lady of the Valley. Older children who have been in the religious education program for at least one year are enrolled in a Special Sacrament Class in preparation for First Eucharist and Reconciliation.

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered on Saturday afternoons from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM, and other times by appointment. Penance Services are offered during Lent and Advent with additional times for private confession.

Confirmation

A special class in preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation is offered for those eighth Grade students who have been in our Religious Education program. The preparation consists of regularly scheduled classes on Wednesday evenings, special retreats and opportunities for ministry. Adults interested in being confirmed may attend the R.C.I.A. classes on Tuesday evenings.

Anointing of the Sick

Please contact one of the priests to receive this sacrament. This sacrament, which celebrates God's healing power and strength, is available for those who need it.

Matrimony

The Church teaches that the Sacrament of Marriage is a commitment of life and love which stretches through the lifetime of the couple and which must grow and develop every day. In order to prepare for this sacrament, anyone seeking to be married in the Church must contact the church office at least six months prior to the wedding. Interviews with the priest, special classes and other preparations are necessary before a couple can celebrate their marriage in Church. Additional steps are required when one of the parties is under nineteen years of age, when there has been a prior marriage, or when there is a premarital pregnancy.

 

Holy Orders

The Diocese sponsors programs for preparation for the Permanent Diaconate and for the priesthood.  Please contact Father Ray for additional information.