Baptism

The Sacrament of Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life, the act of entering the Catholic Church, and the doorway to all the other sacraments.  Because it is so important, baptism should be administered to infants within a reasonable time after birth.  In order to be baptized, a baby must have a well-founded hope of being raised in the Catholic Church, therefore parents must be practicing Catholics.  At least one Godparent, who is a practicing Catholic who has received the Sacrament of Confirmation, is also necessary.  Parishioners should contact the Parish Office before the baby is born to set up a desired date.  Baptisms are usually held on the third Sunday of the month after the Noon Mass (about 1:00 PM).  A baptismal preparation course must be completed before the baptism.

First Confession / First Eucharist

Children begin to live the Christian life more fully through two core sacraments of the Catholic Faith: they are led to repentance in the Sacrament of Reconciliation and they receive spiritual nourishment in the Holy Eucharist.  Both sacraments are typically administered in second grade, if a child has received sufficient catechetical instruction leading up to those sacraments.  Participation in either the religious education program or St. Joseph School is required.

Confirmation

The gifts of the Holy Spirit are bestowed for the fullness of mature Catholic life in the Sacrament of Confirmation.  Young people receive this sacrament in eighth grade after a year of preparation in either the religious education program or St. Joseph School.  Adults who have never received this sacrament at the typical age may receive it in the Easter Season after a period of catechesis and instruction.

Marriage

Engaged parishioners are invited to enter the Sacrament of Matrimony at St. Joseph Church after a period of preparation which must last at least six months.  Those who are not registered parishioners may join the parish and, after attending Mass for three months, may then book a wedding and begin their period of preparation.  Weddings are celebrated Friday evenings or Saturday afternoons.  Because dates are subject to availability, do not book a reception until confirming all details with the parish office.

Anointing of the Sick

Parishioners who are seriously ill or are preparing for surgery are invited to receive the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick in order to be strengthened with grace and seek healing from God.  Because the sacrament is of greater spiritual benefit if the patient is aware and alert, requests for this sacrament should not be left until the matter is urgent, particularly in the terminally ill.  Contact the parish office to set up a pastoral visit.

Funerals

Parishioners who have completed their earthly journey are commended to our merciful Father through Catholic funeral rites.  Typically funerals are arranged through local funeral homes.  Families, however, are invited to select music and readings at the parish office.