About the Sacraments
The Sacraments of the Catholic Church, as is stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, "are Powers that comes forth' from the Body of Christ, which is ever-living and life-giving. They 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." (#1116)
It is through the Sacraments that the spiritual is made known in the physical. “The visible rites by which the sacraments are celebrated signify and make present the graces proper to each sacrament.” (CCC 1131)
Our sin is washed away with water.
Sins are forgiven with the words of absolution.
Our hunger for the Lord is satisfied with bread consecrated to become his body.
The Holy Spirit is sealed on our foreheads with oil.
Man and Woman become one with the words of the vow and the exchanging of rings.
Men are ordained to the priesthood, receiving the marks of the priesthood through spoken words and the laying of hands by the Bishop.
And, when our need is great, we receive the sacrament of anointing with words and oils.
Baptism
Baptism is the gateway of the Sacraments. If you are looking to have your child baptized, please fill out this form and send it to [email protected]. Parents, if you are expecting, this is the perfect time to prepare for baptism. If your child is still an infant, toddler or under the age of 7, the class is still necessary. And if your child is over the age of seven, a special class, a children’s version of OCIA is necessary for you to complete with your child. These arrangements can be made by contacting the Parish office at 517-663-4735 or emailing [email protected].
Reconciliation
Reconciliation is probably the most difficult of sacraments for the human soul, as it invites us to examine our conscience, speak to a priest, and seek absolution. That “Soul Bath” of a sacrament may be difficult, but there is no denying the amazing effect it has! Just as we shower daily lest we stink, we must clean our soul lest we become rank with sin.
Confession Times:
Tuesdays @ 5:30 PM and Saturdays@ 4:00 PM.
You are also welcome to call the office at 517-663-4735 to schedule a Confession Time.
Holy Eucharist
Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of our Catholic faith, occurs at the Altar during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Children should be at the age of reason, age 7, have attended Faith Formation Classes, show a desire for Jesus in the Eucharist, and are ready to come to the table. Attendance at the Sunday Faith Formation Classes are a must, as well as completing a take-home curriculum with parents/guardians. For more information email [email protected].
Confirmation
Confirmation is the final Sacrament of Initiation, sealing us the the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and “brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace” (CCC 1303). At St. Peter Parish, students in the 8th grade who have received Holy Communion are welcome to join the Confirmation Preparation class. We use Chosen, from Ascension Press and meet on Wednesday evenings from 6:00 - 8:00 PM.
Holy Matrimony
Holy Matrimony, with bells ringing, family gathered, and vows exchanged brings a man and a woman together to become one flesh. Marriage is sacred and it is a vocation of serving, loving, and bringing new life into the world. If you are looking to be married at St. Peter Parish, please call to schedule the Marriage Mass at least six months in advance. You will need to meet with a mentoring couple, attend a weekend retreat, and meet with the priest. And congratulations!
Anointing of the Sick
Anointing of the Sick. The day will come when a loved one will desire an anointing. Please call the Parish Office to request a visit from Fr. Mark Martin.
Did you know that you can receive the anointing of the sick more than once? And that you don’t need to be in the threat of death to receive it? If you are scheduled for a surgery, are struggling with a chronic illness, or another medical situation, you are encouraged to call the Parish Office to schedule an anointing. 517-663-4735.
