Sacramental Preparation

Baptism
Preparation for infant baptism at Sacred Heart consists of two sessions during which parents learn about the Rite of Baptism, the role of godparents, and the commitment to raise our children in the practice of the faith. Sessions are held on the first Thursday of alternating months at 7:00 pm (Session One: One: November 3; Session Two: December 1). Parents who have already taken part in previous baptismal preparation are asked to participate in Session Two. We heartily encourage you to complete baptismal preparation before the birth of your child. In order to provide a comfortable atmosphere where all can engage in this process, we ask that you leave children at home. Contact the Parish Office to register for the sessions, to schedule the baptism of your child, or for information concerning baptism for children age 7 and older.

Reconciliation and Eucharist
First Reconciliaton and First Eucharist are usually celebrated by children in grade 2 (or older). Immediate preparation for these sacraments includes:
• child and adult participate in a faith formation program
• parent or guardian attend 2 sessions - one prior to each sacrament
• parent along with the child attend 2 sessions - one prior to each sacrament
• parent or guardian help the child to complete the study materials at home
• child and adult participate in a retreat prior to celebrating each sacrament
See the attachment below for the schedule for 2011-12

Confirmation
Confirmation is usually celebrated by students in grade 10 (or older). Confirmation is a sacrament of initiation that flows from baptism. Preparation for Confirmation begins at baptism and continues until the individual is confirmed. After Confirmation, faith formation continues as a lifelong process.
Immediate preparation for Confirmation includes:
• participation in a faith formation program in the years prior
• participation in the Journey In Faith monthly Gatherings or another faith formation program and weekend Masses
• completion of learning centers
• completion of student/sponsor assigned materials
• completion of reflection notes
• participation in a retreat
• completion of both a scheduled initial dialogue and a reflection conversation with the coordinator
• completion of service experiences, along with a short report of the service rendered and reflection on the experience
See the attachment below for the expectations and schedule for 2011-12