Liturgical Ministries

Religious education and preparation for sacraments

Parish Organizations and Committees

Prayer Groups

Choirs

Youth Ministry

Parish Services

Religious education and preparation for sacraments

1. BAPTISM PREPARATION

This team assists parents/families bringing children for the Sacrament of Baptism by sharing their own faith and instructing parents and godparents in procedures for the sacrament. They also welcome parents and families on the day of their child’s Baptism and assist the priest at the Sacrament of Baptism. This team represents St. Mary’s Parish.

2. FIRST COMMUNION PREPARATION

This Ministry is for those who have the ability to teach and share their faith with young children preparing for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist.

3. CONFIRMATION PREPARATION

This program is designed as a time of preparation and discernment for candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation. This Ministry is for those who have the ability to teach and share their faith with young people in preparing for Confirmation.

4. SUNDAY SCHOOL

This is a program of catechism for our children ages 3 to 10, which takes place during the 12:00 noon Mass. Objectives of the Children’s Church are to bring the Gospel to children at their level and to provide a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere for the children. Volunteers help to present the lesson and assist the children.

5. RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION FOR ADULTS ( R.C.I.A.) PROGRAM

In this program candidates learn about the various aspects of the Catholic faith. It is not just catechism but a place where one experiences evangelization through the witness of the various presenters. One also experiences conversion through the witness that occurs in the companionship between candidates and their sponsors. The course is held weekly from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. from October until April. Sponsors are needed to journey with the members of the R.C.I.A. program to give them encouragement and make them feel welcome in our parish.

6. MARRIAGE PREPARATION COURSE

The Marriage Preparation Weekend Course at St. Mary’s is designed to serve engaged couples. Team members are married couples within our parish who believe in a true commitment, fidelity, wonder and challenge of life within the Sacrament of Marriage. Team couples share their experiences with those planning to marry in the Catholic Church. This is not a teaching course, but rather a sharing course wherein it is hoped that the couples engaged will be enlightened about different aspects of married life as experienced by our team couples. We welcome anyone interested as a host couple.19.

7.SOCIAL JUSTICE

This group must have a keen interest in Social Justice. They will attend meetings and help at various Social Justice endeavors. e.g. petitions, fund raising activities. It is the responsibility of this committee to make the parish aware of Social Justice issues.