How can I participate in the Sacraments?
Key encounters with the Holy Trinity happen through some significant moments we call Sacraments.
What are the Sacraments?
In the lives of Catholics, there are key milestones. These can also be experienced through the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Key encounters with the Holy Trinity happen through some significant moments we call Sacraments.
The seven sacraments of the Church, in ritual and symbol, celebrate God’s presence and participation in our lives. They are an invitation to join God’s circle of love. The sacraments are:
- Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist – Sacraments of Initiation
- Reconciliation (Penance) and Anointing of the Sick – Sacraments of Healing
- Marriage and Ordination (Holy Orders) – Sacraments of Service.
Read more about them below or find your local Parish so you can also celebrate these sacraments.
Sacraments
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Baptism
Baptism is a symbol of cleansing and new life, marking the initiation of a person into the Christian faith. In preparing for the sacrament of baptism you will need to contact your local Parish, attend a pre-baptismal program, select godparents, choose a baptismal name, prepare for the ceremony, take some time to pray as a family, complete necessary documentation, attend the ceremony with your family and friends and continue the spiritual growth and development of your child.
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Confirmation
Confirmation marks a deepening of a person’s faith and commitment to Christian life. Through Confirmation, Catholics receive the Holy Spirit in a special way, empowering us to live a life of faith, service, and witness. In preparing for confirmation, you will need to contact your local parish to enrol in the program, regularly attend mass, nurture your relationship with God, choose a confirmation sponsor, engage in service and charity and continue to nurture your faith following.
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First Communion
First Communion marks a person’s first reception of the Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. It occurs well after their First Reconciliation and signifies their full initiation into the Catholic faith and a relationship with Jesus Christ. In preparing for First Holy Communion you should contact your local parish and be enrolled in the program, spend time in prayer and reflection, discuss with others the important of this sacrament, attend confession, practice receiving the Eucharist, celebrate the special occasion, and continue to nurture your understanding and practice of the faith.
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Marriage
Marriage is a sacred and joyful commitment in the Catholic Church. Through the Sacrament of Marriage, a husband and wife publicly commit themselves to one another and to a life centred on God’s love.
If you are considering marriage in a church within the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, contact your local parish to discuss availability, the booking process and marriage preparation.
Couples may choose between a wedding ceremony or a Nuptial Mass. A wedding ceremony includes the Liturgy of the Word and the Rite of Marriage, while a Nuptial Mass also includes the celebration of the Eucharist. Your parish priest can help you determine the best option for you and your family.
Marriage preparation is an important part of the journey and provides an opportunity to reflect on your relationship, faith and future together. To discuss preparation options, speak with your parish priest or contact Mission & Evangelisation at [email protected]
