Sacramental Information and Preparation
"The seven sacraments touch all the stages and all the important moments of Christian life: they give birth and increase, healing and mission to the Christian's life of faith. There is thus a certain resemblance between the stages of natural life and the stages of spiritual life. " (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1210)
Sacraments are visible signs of God's invisible presence for Catholics. The following describes how OLPH Church prepares children and adults to receive and celebrate the sacraments.
Baptism
This sacrament welcomes one into the family of God and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish. Participation in one baptism class offered every other month is required for parents with first time baptisms. This class will clarify the roles of parents, godparents, and the various symbols that are used within the baptismal ceremony. Baptisms are held on the first Sunday of the month after the last mass (except during Lent). Please call the Parish Center to register for a baptism class or to schedule a baptism.
Eucharist
Preparation for First Eucharist (First Communion) begins in January of the second grade for our school and Faith Formation students. Besides the classroom catechesis, there is one meeting for parents and two meetings for the parents and children to attend. The children have a textbook for the classroom sessions, and the parents are given a packet of useful information to continue the catechesis in the home. Celebration of First Eucharist is done at the three regularly scheduled masses usually on the last weekend of April.
Confirmation
Confirmation is one of the three sacraments of initiation along with Baptism and Eucharist. Confirmation deepens our relationship with God, the Holy Spirit, and strengthens us to live lives of faith and mission. Preparation for Confirmation is open to high school youth sophomore class and above. Candidates are prepared annually with formation sessions usually beginning in the fall months.
Reconciliation
The celebration of First Reconciliation occurs in the fall of the second grade for most students. To prepare for the sacrament our second grade school and Faith Formation children begin their classroom catechesis soon after school starts. There is one parent meeting and one meeting for parents and children to include the family in the child's preparation. The children have a text they use in class, and the parents are given a packet of ideas to help their catechesis at home.
Anointing of the Sick
This sacrament is made available as a communal service usually once a year. However, if needed privately at any other time, please call. In an emergency, please notify a priest immediately.
Matrimony
Arrangements are to be made with the parish priest 6 months prior to the proposed wedding date. Participation in a marriage preparation program is required.
Holy Orders
Those considering entering the priesthood or a Religious Vocation, please contact our Pastor or the Archdiocesan Vocation Office at 1-800-382-9836 (e-mail: ejohnson@archindy.org).
Children or adults that need sacramental preparation which do not fit the criteria already mentioned above, please contact the Parish Center so appropriate catechesis may be determined.