The seven sacraments—Baptism, Confession, Holy Communion, Marriage, Confirmation, Anointing of the Sick, and Holy Orders—are the life of the Catholic Church. Each sacrament is an outward sign of an inward grace. When we participate in them worthily, each provides us with graces—with the life of God in our soul. In worship, we give to God that which we owe Him; in the sacraments, He gives us the graces necessary to live a truly human life.
The Sacrament of Baptism, the first of the three sacraments of initiation, is also the first of the seven sacraments in the Catholic Church. It removes the guilt and effects of Original Sin and incorporates the baptized into the Church, the Mystical Body of Christ on earth.
Baptisms are held on the 3rd Sunday of the month at 1:00 p.m. A seminar required for both parents and godparents is held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. in the Church office. You must register for this seminar. Baptisms are not held during the Lenten season. It is recommended that you call at least 2 months prior to obtain the necessary documents and to schedule the required seminar.
Remember, Godparents must be Catholic and must be Confirmed. Contact the church office, at 504-466-4511, if you have any questions regarding this requirement.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is the second of the three sacraments of initiation because, historically, it was administered immediately after the Sacrament of Baptism. Confirmation perfects our baptism and brings us the graces of the Holy Spirit that were granted to the Apostles on Pentecost Sunday.
Confirmation is held once a year as scheduled by the Archbishop. Confirmation is completed for youth in their Junior year of High School.
Our RCIA program holds classes during the year for adults who will be confirmed at the Easter Vigil.
While Catholics in the West today normally make their First Communion before they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Sacrament of Holy Communion, the reception of Christ's Body and Blood, was historically the third of the three sacraments of initiation. This sacrament, the one we receive most often throughout our lives, is the source of great graces that sanctify us and help us grow in the likeness of Jesus Christ.
First Communion is received for youth generally in the second grade. For those enrolled in Catholic school, preparation will take place in school. For those enrolled in public school, preparation takes place in our School of Religion program. The First Communion Mass takes place in May. Call the Church Office for individual concerns.
Eucharist for sick and shut-ins: Communion calls are made regularly. Please notify the Church Office when someone is ill and unable to attend Church for any significant length of time.
The Sacrament of Confession is one of the least understood, and least utilized, sacraments in the Catholic Church. In reconciling us to God, it is a great source of grace, and Catholics are encouraged to take advantage of it often, even if they are not aware of having committed a mortal sin.
Saturday 3:00-3:45 p.m., and from 5:15-5:45 (Spanish). Sunday 5:15-5:45 p.m., Anytime by appointment.
Click here for a good examination of conscience.
Marriage, a lifelong union between a man and a woman for procreation and mutual support, is a natural institution, but it is also one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. As a sacrament, it reflects the union of Jesus Christ and His Church.
Arrangements must be made with the parish priest at least 6 months in advance. Please call the church office to begin the process.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the continuation of Christ's priesthood, which He bestowed upon His Apostles. There are three levels to this sacrament: the episcopate, the priesthood, and the diaconate.
Any person sensing a call from God to Holy Orders should contact the parish priest to learn about diocesan guidelines that will help with discernment of their call to Holy Orders.
Traditionally referred to as Extreme Unction or Last Rites, the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is administered both to the dying and to those who are gravely ill or are about to undergo a serious operation, for the recovery of their health and for spiritual strength.
Please call the church office to schedule an anointing for yourself or for a loved one. The parish priest will schedule a visit as soon as possible.