Sacraments of Initiation

Baptism

Life Giving Water

“In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" - Matthew 28:19.

This initial sacrament frees us from sin through God’s sanctifying grace. Through the waters of Baptism the Holy Spirit seals us as belonging to Christ. Baptism is the foundation of communion between all Christians.

Baptising your child

Join us with other families as you anticipate the Baptism of your child.

We’ll gather together to reflect on the gift of faith, what is Baptism, your desires as parents, and the opportunity to meet other parents.

Parents who desire to have their child baptized, the preparation process includes:

Initial visit with Joe Kelly if this is your first child to be baptized at Pax Christi.
Attending a formation session for each child to be baptized.
Celebrating the Sacrament of Baptism at one of the weekend Masses.

Please contact Joe Kelley by e-mail at liturgist@paxchristichurch.org to start the preparation process.

Confirmation

Strengthen and Deepen Faith through the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

“All powerful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by water and the Holy Spirit you freed your sons and daughters from sin. And gave them new life. Send your Holy Spirit upon them to be their helper and guide. Give them the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of right judgment and courage, the spirit of knowledge and reverence. Fill them with the spirit of wonder and awe in your presence. – Rite of Confirmation

Confirmation or Chrismation is the second sacrament of Christian initiation. It is conferred by the anointing with Sacred Chrism (oil mixed with balsam and consecrated by the bishop), which is done by the laying on of hands to be anointed and sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We pray that the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit take root in us so that we may become signs of God's living presence in the world.

Students in 10th grade begin their journey toward confirmation in small groups that meet in the home monthly. Confirmation is celebrated in the spring of 10th grade.

Youth should contact Angie Slattery by e-mail at youth@paxchristichurch.org for more information. Adults should see the section below on RCIA.

Eucharist

Unifying Source and Center of Christian Living

"Let your Spirit come upon these gifts to make them holy, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Grant that we, who are nourished by his body and blood, may be filled with his Holy Spirit, and become one body, one spirit in Christ." - Eucharistic Prayer

The Eucharist is the source of life giving bread and is lies at the heart of the mystery of the Church. Through the Eucharist we are fed, nourished and enlightened. Through transubstantiation- the changing of bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ-- the Eucharist is a mystery which surpasses our understanding and can only be received in faith.

The day of first Holy Communion is the beginning of a new journey with Jesus. Beginning on this day, we are able to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, the Real Presence of Jesus, every day if we so choose. We are certainly encouraged to partake of this sacred feast at least weekly. As we do so, we participate in a special grace that helps us in our daily walk through life. Eucharist also helps us to understand that our walk with Jesus is truly a journey of life that never ends.

Preparation for First Eucharist at Pax Christi is accomplished through a combination of home and parish preparation sessions. Children celebrate the sacrament when parents, child and coordinator agree that the child is ready. This usually occurs after receiving First Reconciliation in second grade. Parent Orientation is in early December with First Eucharist being celebrated at the end of April.

Adults wishing to receive first Eucharist at Pax Christi should see the next section on RCIA.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

Becoming a Catholic - A Journey in Faith

Are you a Seeker, desiring to know about our faith and possibly joining our Catholic church?

We welcome you! The Pax Christi community invites you to join us with your questions as we explore the Catholic faith through the RCIA process.

What does RCIA mean?

RCIA stands for Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults
At Pax Christi the RCIA process is a guided journey to prepare for sacramental initiation and entry into the Catholic Church. The journey is also one of individualized prayer, reflection and learning that allows for the continual discernment of God's plan in our lives.
Candidates, those already baptized, and catechumens, those who have not been baptized, both participate in this learning, loving process of conversion.
Sponsors, the RCIA team, and the entire parish community are involved in walking with and supporting the RCIA candidate along their faith journey.
Through the RCIA process everyone is renewed in faith.

What Topics are covered?

The Formation includes several areas:
Scripture: the stories of God's people
Teaching: what Catholics believe
Prayer: how we communicate with God
Liturgy: how the community worships
Mission: how we live out what we believe

Who belongs in RCIA?

This process is for anyone who:

Desires to know more about the Catholic Church
Is unbaptized and wants to become a Catholic Christian through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
Is a baptized Christian (in another faith tradition or Catholic) who desires full sacramental membership in the Catholic Church through Confirmation and Eucharist.
Attends the Catholic Church and is questioning if the Catholic Church is for you.
Was baptized catholic but left or has had little or no contact with the Church.
Was baptized catholic but has never celebrated Eucharist and / or Confirmation.

Who is involved in the process?

Actually, the whole parish is involved in the RCIA process. Besides those seeking initiation into the Church, there are parish sponsors, prayer partners and a team of parishioners who walk the spiritual journey with the candidates.
Throughout the process there are rites that are celebrated within the Sunday liturgies. At the Sunday liturgies the parish assembly welcomes and supports the candidates in prayer.

Who are the sponsors?

Sponsors are persons from the parish who serve as companions, mentors, and guides throughout the RCIA process.
Sponsors do not need to be “answer people” who are experts in the knowledge about their faith. Sponsors receive information and support for their ministry.
Sponsors desire to grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with God.

How long does it take to become a full member of the Catholic Church?

It depends on the person. We respect each person, their journey and allow for discernment along the way. Commitment is made in stages and a final commitment is not made until a determined time during the liturgical year. Generally, unbaptized persons are received into the Church at the Easter Vigil.

What if I’m not sure. Am I committed to becoming a Catholic from the start?

No. RCIA is a journey. The RCIA team members and parish sponsors are available to help the interested adult discern if this is the best path for them at this time.

Questions? Please contact Cathy Walden at cathwal@charter.net.