Initiation into the sacramental life of the Catholic Church is accomplished through the cooperative efforts of parents and parish programming. The preparation for the following sacraments is a two year process, which means simply that each Child must have attended one year of regular faith formation classes before enrollment into the sacramental preparation, which includes workshops, meetings and a retreat in addition to regular faith formation classes.

First Eucharist and First Reconciliation

Children in grades two or higher will begin preparation for the Sacrament of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist in the fall. Parents attend an adult formation session and receive materials to work at home with their children. Parents and children come together in April for a Retreat on a Saturday morning and which includes their First Reconciliation Service.

The Sacrament of First Eucharist is celebrated during the Easter season; usually the first weekend of May.

Confirmation

A comprehensive two year program is included in the Junior High program at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and the Sacred Hearts. In the fall of their second year of formation, a parent/candidate session is held to explain the final process with Confirmation celebrated in the spring of that calendar year. In addition to the regular lessons, students are asked to participate in youth group activities designed to build community, participate in Christian Service projects, attend an Advent pilgrimage, attend a Retreat, experience a Passover Seder Meal, and be interviewed by leaders of our faith community. All these components teach how to live as a fully initiated Catholic Christian.