Sacraments
Baptism
Contact Sr. Pat - (804) 740-4044, ext. 17
Guidelines:
- In compliance with diocesan policy, parents are expected to participate in two baptismal preparation sessions prior to scheduling their child's baptism.
- The family of the child to be baptized is to be a registered member of St. Mary's Parish for at least three months.
- Baptism initiates a child into the faith community of the Catholic Church. It is celebrated in the midst of the parish community, whose presence witnesses its willingness to support and encourage its newest members and their parents. Therefore, Baptism is celebrated during our weekend Eucharistic Liturgies.
- The fee for baptismal materials is $30. Payment may be made during the preparation meeting.
- Parent will need to call Sr. Pat at the Parish Office to register for Baptismal Sessions.
We welcome your child to be baptized at St. Mary's. Whenever we welcome new life, our life as a faith community is enhanced. Parents, godparents, and the community, together promise to share the joys and challenges of living our Catholic faith.
As a Sacrament of Initiation , Baptism is the first step in our life-long journey of faith. Parents who decide to have their baby baptized are also choosing to share their own faith by the example of their words and actions. Baptism, then, makes visible your commitment and that of the godparents you choose, to the ongoing growth in faith of your child. A faith that is alive and active is "caught" more than it is "taught."
We hope that this time of preparation and celebration will be an opportunity for you to both reflect on your faith and to renew your commitment to living out your chosen responsibilities. May you understand as addressed to you the words of Christ to His disciples: "Teach them to carry out everything I have commanded you. And know that I am with you always...."
First Reconciliation and First Eucharist
Contact John Sweet - (804) 740-4044, ext. 17
Guidelines:
- Family should be registered at St. Mary's Church.
- Family should be participating in the life of the parish, particularly regular attendance at Mass.
- Children must have been baptized Roman Catholic. **
- Children must be in the 2nd grade or above.
- Children must be registered for and participating in either the parish religious education program or a Catholic school.
- Children must prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation prior to First Eucharist preparation.
- The basic responsibility for the preparation of the children will rest with the parents as the primary catechists. The parish program of preparation is to support and aide the parent in this role.
For information about the preparation program, registration and calendars, visit the Children's Ministry page.
**Children age 8 and over who have not been baptized or who have been baptized in another faith should call the Parish Office prior to registering. The RCIA adapted for children may be the preparation process for you.
Teen Confirmation
Contact John Sweet - (804) 740-4044, ext. 17
Guidelines:
- Family should be registered at St. Mary's Church.
- Family should be participating in the life of the parish, particularly regular attendance at Mass.
- Teens must have been baptized Roman Catholic and should have celebrated the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. **
- Teens must be in the 10th grade or above.
- Teens must be registered for and participating in either the parish religious education program or a Catholic school.
For information about the preparation program, registration and calendars, visit the Life Teen page.
**Children and youth age 8 and over who have not been baptized or who have been baptized in another faith should call the Parish Office prior to registering. The adapted RCIA program may be the preparation process for you.
Adult Confirmation
Contact Sr. Pat - (804) 740-4044, ext. 17
Adult Confirmation preparation is a program available to adults who have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation. The session meet weekly on Wednesday evenings during the Lenten season. Contact Sr. Pat for information and details.
Anointing of the Sick
Contact Fr. Michael Renninger - (804) 740-4044, ext. 12 or Sr. Pat McCarthy, ext. 13 at the Parish Office
The Sacrament of Anointing is the proper sacrament for those whose health is seriously impaired by sickness or old age or about to undergo a serious operation. One seeks the Sacrament for support in struggle against illness and to seek healing from Christ.
Marriage
Contact Sharon Vrtis (804) 740-4044, ext. 17
- At least one of the parties must be registered and participating in the Parish for at least 3 months prior to contacting the office.
- You must plan to begin pre-marital preparation at least 6 months prior to your proposed wedding date.
Holy Orders
To discern your call to be a priest or religious, contact the Diocesan Office of Vocations at (804) 359-5661 or contact your parish priest.