Preparing for Sacraments
This information serves as a guide to help you in preparing for the reception of Sacraments. We are excited to be part of this beautiful opportunity for God's Special Grace and will work with you as you journey towards them.
Baptism: Congratulations! We are so happy for your family as you welcome your child to become part of God's family of faith. Please click on the tab to the right of this page. Fill out the form and click submit to return it. If it is your first child, we will require that you watch an online video explaining the symbols and what baptism is. The video is in a link under the baptism form. Reminder that at least one Godparent must be a Confirmed Catholic. Most Baptisms take place during the weekend Masses. That way everyone gets a chance to join in welcoming the newest member of God's family!
First Reconciliation: Classes are offered through our Faith Formation Program at Saint Ann, children receive this Sacrament in 2nd Grade. Parents are involved as well through Reconciliation Learning Center, a special training with Father Schneider and the group celebration of Reconciliation. Home schooled preparation is also an option. Contact Father Schneider, Faith Formation Director Carol Jewison or the parish office for more information.
First Communion: This special Sacrament is also celebrated in 2nd Grade at Saint Ann. Classes are offered through our Faith Formation Program with a teacher and Father Schneider works with the families in preparation. A special time with parents and children involves learning centers and a special learning time with Father Schneider. First Communion is celebrated at a 8:30 a.m. Mass at the parish in the spring. Contact Father Schneider, Faith Formation Director Carol Jewison or the parish office for more information. Home Schooling is also an option. If a family would like to have their child celebrate on another date other than with the group, please check with Father Schneider.
Confirmation: Students prepare for the gift of a strengthening of the Holy Spirit through Confirmation in a special way through classes. They meet with their parents and/or sponsors for special sharing and discussion. Each student writes a letter to the bishop explaining how they have prepared, why they wish to be confirmed and what Saint's name they have chosen. The Sacrament is celebrated with Immaculate Conception Parish of St. Clair and All Saints Parish of Madison Lake. Faith Formation Director Carol Jewison is in charge of this program.
Marriage : We congratulate couples on their engagement and are happy to work with them in preparation for the Holy Sacrament of Matrimony! Arrangements for the date and preparations are made by contacting Fr. Schneider (507-469-9979) at least 9 months in advance. It is important that Father Schneider gets it on his calendar and that we do not have another activity scheduled in the church at the requested date! Father Schneider works with each couple to prepare them for a lifetime together celebrated with faith as a central element. Each couple will complete a Pre-marital inventory online. The results help couples to explore areas and communicate on important topics before the wedding. Father will also help couples to plan the actual wedding ceremony and Mass if there is one.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process where adults become members in the Catholic Church. Father Schneider works with candidates to help them understand the Catholic Faith through reading of various books and meeting with them for discussion and sharing information. Topics include: Catholic theology, God's incredible love for us, a review of the Catechism of the Catholic Church and more. For additional information, contact Fr. Schneider.
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is offered to anyone who is need of strengthening. It used to be that people only sought it once just when death seemed imminent. Now we understand that this precious gift of the the strengthening of the Holy Spirit is a great gift which can help us to heal and know God's love. If you would like to have Father visit you either in an emergency or in other times of suffering or weakness, please call his cell phone 507-469-9979 or email him at frschneider51@gmail.com. His information is on the front of every bulletin.
Holy Orders: Have you ever thought that God might be calling you to serve as a priest? If you are considering such a vocation, please feel free to contact Father Schneider. He will be happy talk to you about it. In addition you can find information on the diocesan website - dow.org/offices/vocations. Father Brian Mulligan is the Director of Vocations. He can be reached at 507-454-4643 or bmulligan@dowr.org. The diocesan website has resources also for those considering a vocation to the religious life.
Mass Intentions: If you would like to have a Mass said for the intention of a loved one, the stipend is $10. Please contact our parish office to schedule it.
Funeral Mass: In the event that you need to plan a funeral, call Father 507-469-9979 to schedule a funeral Mass. He will schedule a time to meet with your family, usually at the funeral home, and to make arrangements for the Mass of Resurrection or memorial service as the family wishes. He will help you select scripture readings, music, plan for a meal if you want to have one, and more.