Grace is a participation in the Life of God. 
It introduces us into the intimacy of Trinitarian life (CCC 1997).

The liturgical life of the Catholic Church revolves around the Eucharistic sacrifice and the sacraments.

Sacraments are a means of participating in the divine life of God, ...here on earth, ...in this very moment of life. They not only presuppose faith, but by words and object, they also nourish, strengthen, and express it; that is why they are called "sacraments of faith."   The very act of celebrating them disposes the faithful most effectively to participate through grace in a fruitful manner, to worship God rightly, and to practice charity.

This page offers guidance for the Sacraments consistent with Diocesan and Parish requirements 

BAPTISM (infants and adults)

Parental Requirements for Infant Baptism at St. Charles Church:

1. Recognize that you are the first teachers of faith, and willing to raise the child in the faith.
2. Designate at least one sponsor who is confirmed and has already received the Eucharist.
3. Attend the St. Charles Parish baptismal preparation program.
4. Provide a copy of the infant’s birth certificate, or proof of paternity.
5. $15 to cover parish expense.  

Requirements for Godparents/ Sponsor:

1. Be designated by the parents, or the person who takes their place, and have the intention of faithfully fulfilling  the obligation of helping the baptized person lead a Christian life.
2. Be at least 17 years of age, and be a confirmed Catholic and has already received the Eucharist and leading a life of faith in keeping with the obligations of helping the baptized lead a life of faith.
3. Attend the St. Charles Parish baptismal preparation program.

Additional Recommendations to Parents and Godparents:

1. Investigate our parish website to view more information on our faith & the sacraments.
2. If you live in the parish but are not registered, please consider doing so, and realize the many benefits of being an active and contributing member of St. Charles Parish.

 
INTRODUCTION: Children who reach the age of reason (approximately seven
years old) are to be prepared to receive First Communion. Children are to have the
preparation and the opportunity to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to
First Communion. The R.C.I.A. is to be used to prepare adults.

1. Readiness for First Communion is when the child expresses a desire for it and is
   able to distinguish it from ordinary bread and wine.
2. The child should be able to recognize the communal aspect of the sacrament.
3. The determination for readiness is the responsibility of the parents, the catechists,
   and the pastor.
4. Parents have a duty to be involved in the preparation of their child for the first
   reception of Communion.
5. Parishes will provide programs which help parents teach their children.
6. The parish church rather than the school is the appropriate place for preparation
   and celebration of First Communion.

  

The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available from 3:15 – 3:45pm before the Saturday vigil Mass. Any other time based upon request.

 
INTRODUCTION: Children who reach the age of reason (approximately seven
years old) are to be prepared to receive sacramental reconciliation. The R.C.I.A. is
to be used to prepare adults.

1. First Reconciliation is to be celebrated prior to the reception of First Communion.
2. Parents, as the primary educators of their children, must be involved in the
   preparation of their children.
3. Parishes will provide programs which help parents teach their children.
4. Parents, catechists, and the pastor have the responsibility for determining the
   readiness of the individual child.
5. The parish church rather than the school is to be the place of preparation and
   celebration.
6. No child may be denied this sacrament if properly disposed.
7. A child's desire and choice not to celebrate this sacrament is to be respected.
8. Catechesis for First Reconciliation is to be conducted separately from First
   Communion.

INTRODUCTION: Students must be in the 11th grade and/or sixteen years of age.

1. Preparation for Confirmation involves the coordinated efforts of the candidates, pastor, parents, sponsors, catechists, and the parish community.
2. Preparation for Confirmation takes place within the parish community.
3. The initiation of children into sacramental life is primarily the responsibility of
   the parents.
4. Sponsors are to be named by the student's parents and must be of at least sixteen
   years of age. They are to be Catholics, themselves confirmed, and lead a life in
   harmony with the duty they are undertaking. A sponsor cannot be one of the
   parents of the student nor can they be bound by any canonical penalty.

 

The Sacrament of Confirmation for our High School youth is administered at the completion of a (1) year program taught through the Parish Religion Education Classes. The program consists of weekly classes, retreats, and the successful completion of several community service projects.

Adults interested in being Confirmed should enroll in the Adult Confirmation program held during the spring of each year and announced in the bulletin soon after the first of the year.

All Candidates for Confirmation must have proof of Baptism. The Church in which you were baptized is your "Church of Record." Contact your Church of Record and request a Baptismal Certificate.

MARRIAGE

Matrimony is a powerful and effective sign of Christ’s presence that joins a man and woman together for life. In the sacrament of Matrimony, a bride and groom promise to love each other as equal partners forever.

Unlike other sacraments at which a priest or deacon presides, in Matrimony the ministers are the bride and groom, and the priest or deacon is the witness to the couple’s promises. Holding hands and saying the words of the marriage vows are the visible signs of Matrimony. Jesus comes to the couple and unites them in love. The Holy Spirit strengthens and blesses their love. Their married love becomes a sign of God’s love for the world. Wedding rings are signs of the new union.

Couples contemplating marriage should begin their preparation at least six months prior to the anticipated date of the wedding.

Check the Documents below for St. Charles Guidelines regarding Marriage and the Diocesan website for Marriage and Family 

ANOINTING OF THE SICK

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the sick brings God’s special blessings to those who are sick, elderly or dying. This Sacrament helps those who are sick to face their illness with faith and trust in God.

Wherever the sacrament is celebrated, it also comforts family and friends and helps them to pray for the sick, elderly, or dying. The two most important signs of this sacrament are laying on of hands and anointing with oil. When Holy Communion is given to a dying person, it is called Viaticum, which means “food for the journey.” Viaticum is often received along with Anointing of the Sick. Anointing is no longer called The Last Rites because it can bring peace, hope, and comfort to all who are ill, even if they are not dying.

Anointing of the Sick can be a communal celebration in the Church or a private celebration by request of the family. The priest can also celebrate the sacrament at home or in the hospital.

Contact the Parish Office to arrange for the reception of this Sacrament.