BAPTISM
Baptism brings us into the life of the Spirit, union with Christ and membership in the Church.
What are Sacraments?
Sacraments are when God shares His holiness with us so we can go out into the world and help bring others to holiness.
One of the key teachings of our faith is that Jesus was a human being while at the same time was holy.
The sacraments help to pour out God’s grace on us so that we might become holy in our words and actions even though we too are human.
The sacraments help us grow in our faith, help us find healing when we are sick or when we sin, and help us to define our purpose in this life.
WHY CELEBRATE THE SACRAMENTS?
Sacraments make us holy.
The grace we receive through the the sacraments can change our lives.
- It helps us better understand God’s plan for us.
- It inspires us to share God with others.
- It heals us when we sin or when we’re sick.
- It brings us closer to God and to our Church family.
HOW DO I RECEIVE A SACRAMENT?
Some sacraments can be celebrated any time via an appointment. To set up an appointment, call the parish office at 563-588-1433 or email the designated staff member.
Some sacraments have additional requirements and/or a preparation process. Check the individual sacrament pages to learn more about the sacrament, the preparation process and the staff members who oversee preparation.
BAPTISM & CONFIRMATION FOR ADULTS
There is a special process for adults who want to be baptized and/or confirmed Catholic. This process is called the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults or RCIA. Learn more on our RCIA page or by calling the parish office.
THE SACRAMENTS
EUCHARIST
The Eucharist is the most important sacrament. This is when we receive Jesus Himself in His Body and His Blood as we remember His Death and Resurrection that save us from sin.
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation incorporates us more firmly into Christ, strengthens our bond with the Church, associates us more closely with the Church's mission, and helps us share the faith through our words and actions.
RECONCILIATION
Sometimes called the sacrament of penance or confession, this is to help us become more Christ-like. When we sin, this sacrament helps us ask for God's forgiveness and help to avoid sin in the future.
ANOINTING OF THE SICK
This sacrament is for everyone seriously ill, physically or mentally, and for those with a special need. We ask God to heal us through His saving grace.
MATRIMONY
This is the sacrament of married life and love. The wife and husband are united in Christ. They serve God for the rest of their lives through their love for each other and for their family.
HOLY ORDERS
Holy Orders is how bishops, priests and deacons serve and care for God's people. Those who hear God calling them to the priesthood or diaconate undergo special training and help lead God's Church here on earth.