The seven sacraments are the heart of Catholic life. Through them Christ meets us at every stage of life: at birth and growing up, in sickness and in sin, in marriage and in service to the Church.
Arrangements for every sacrament are made through your parish. Speak to your parish priest or the parish office as early as possible. Find your parish.
Baptism
Baptism is the first sacrament, by which we become children of God and members of the Church.
- Infants: parents should contact the parish soon after birth. Parents and godparents normally attend baptism preparation classes.
- Godparents: at least one godparent is required. A godparent must be a practising Catholic, at least 16 years old, who has received Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion, and is not the child’s parent.
- Older children and adults are prepared through the catechumenate (RCIA), and usually receive Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Communion together at the Easter Vigil.
Holy Eucharist
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. Catholics are obliged to attend Mass on Sundays and holy days of obligation.
First Holy Communion: children are usually prepared from about seven years of age through parish catechism classes, and must first make their First Confession.
Reconciliation (Confession)
In the sacrament of Penance we receive God’s forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism. Catholics should confess serious sins before receiving Holy Communion, and at least once a year. Ask your parish for its confession times, or approach any priest.
Confirmation
Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism and strengthens us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to witness to the faith. Candidates are prepared in their parish over a period of catechesis and are confirmed by the Bishop or his delegate. Each candidate chooses a sponsor, who should meet the same requirements as a godparent.
Marriage
Catholic marriage is a lifelong covenant between a man and a woman, blessed by God.
- Contact your parish priest at least six months before the planned wedding.
- Couples attend a marriage preparation course.
- Each party usually provides recent baptism and confirmation certificates and a declaration of freedom to marry. The parish will advise on any customary or civil documents needed.
- The banns are announced in the parishes of both parties before the wedding.
- If one party is not Catholic, or there has been a previous marriage, speak to the priest early, as further steps may be needed.
Anointing of the Sick
The Church anoints those who are seriously ill, frail through old age, or preparing for surgery, for strength, peace and healing. In an emergency, call your parish priest at once. The sacrament can also be received during a parish Mass for the sick.
Holy Orders
Through ordination, men are consecrated as deacons, priests and bishops to serve the People of God. If you feel called, read about vocations.