Holy Family

The Sacraments are "actions of the Holy Spirit at work in his Body, the Church. They are the 'masterworks of God' in the new and everlasting covenant" (Catechism 1116). "The purpose of the Sacraments", wrote the Fathers of the Second Vatican Council, "is to sanctify human beings, to build up the Body of Christ, and, finally, to give worship to God... They not only presuppose faith, but by words and objects they also nourish, strengthen, and express it".

The Seven Sacraments of the Church:

The Sacraments of Christian Initiation
1. The Sacrament of Baptism
Communal celebrations of Baptism are held within the Mass on weekends. Classes are held at either Holy Family or St. Joseph- on the third weekend at 12:30 - 2:00 pm.   Contact rectory for more information.   Holy Family classes are held in the rectory basement. Print and use this Baptism data sheet and bring it to class.
Dates for 2010: Jan 17 (St. Joe), March 21 (Holy Family), May 16 (St. Joe),
July 18 (St. Joe), Sept 19 (Holy Family), Nov 21 (Holy Family).

Adults interested in becoming Catholic participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This program begins in the fall and concludes at the Easter Vigil.

2. The Sacrament of Confirmation
Students in tenth grade spend a year in weekly small group sessions to prepare for the sacrament of confirmation. This sacrament is typically celebrated in the March or April.

3. The Sacrament of the Eucharist
Eucharist is available daily at church liturgies; times vary from day to day (see the Bulletin or Home).
In second grade, children begin to prepare to receive the Eucharist, the body and blood of Christ, for the first time.  Students participate in a yearlong program through attendance at Newman Catholic School or through the religious education classes. This includes preparation for First Reconciliation and culminates in the First Eucharist celebration usually in May.

The Sacraments of Healing
4. The Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation
Saturdays 3:00 - 3:45 p.m. or by appointment

5. The Anointing of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick -formerly known as 'last rites' -is no longer considered a sacrament only for those at the point of death. Instead, this healing sacrament is for all those who are facing major surgery, chronic illness, or the weakness that comes with age. For information, contact the rectory office during office hours. In an emergency, or after hours, call the hospital, at 641-422-7924.
Celebration of this sacrament takes places several times a year within the Mass (watch for these times in the bulletin).

The Sacraments at the Service of Communion
6. The Sacrament of Holy Orders – Priest, Deacon
Contact the rectory if you are interested in finding out more, or know of someone who might be interested.

7. The Sacrament of Matrimony
Contact the rectory at least 6 months prior to date of marriage