"The sacraments are the manifestation of the Father's tenderness & love towards each of us." - Pope Francis
SacramentsThe Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are ceremonies that point to what is sacred, significant and important for Christians. They are special occasions for experiencing God’s saving presence. That’s what theologians mean when they say that sacraments are at the same time signs and instruments of God’s grace.
What is a sacrament?
The sacraments are “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us” (CCC 1131). In other words, a sacrament is a sacred and visible sign that is instituted by Jesus to give us grace, an undeserved gift from God. (See also CCC 1084).
Baptism
For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.
For the Baptism of Infants and Children:
Celebrated on designated Saturday mornings, usually once a month.
Preparation at a Baptismal Formation Session is required for parents.
Preparation Sessions are scheduled as necessary.
Godparents must provide a sponsor form filled in and signed by their parish. It is expected that parents presenting a child for Baptism participate regularly in the liturgical life of the parish.
For the Baptism of Adults:
Adults receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist in a single ceremony, after a process of inquiry and discernment, often known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
For more details on celebrating Baptism for you or your child email Jen Marran at jmarranctkri@gmail.com
Eucharist
Catholics believe the Eucharist, or Communion both a sacrifce and a meal. We believe in the real presence of Jesus, who died for our sins. As we receive Christ’s Body and Blood, we also are nourished spiritually and brought closer to God.
For more information on First Communion reach out to Georgann Lardaro at glardaro@ctkri.org
Confirmation
Confirmation is a Catholic Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. It is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation for Catholics. It is most often associated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. For more information, visit our Confirmation Page CLICK HERE
Anointing of the sick
The Catholic Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, formerly known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, is a ritual of healing appropriate not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual sickness.
If you or a loved one is in need of an anointing, please call the parish office immediately. 401.783.7459
Marriage
The Sacrament of Marriage, or Holy Matrimony, is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to this other person. It is also a public statement about God: the loving union of husband and wife speaks of family values and also God’s values.
For more details on celebrating your wedding at Christ the King please email Father Jared at jaredjcostanza@gmail.com
Reconciliation
The new life received in Christian initiation has not abolished the frailty and weakness of human nature, nor our inclination to sin. This inclination still which remains in the baptized (adapted from CCC 1426). We approach the Sacrament of Penance & Reconciliation to obtain pardon from God’s mercy for our offenses, and to reconcile with the Church which we have wounded by our sins (CCC #1422). “Sin is before all else an offense against God, a rupture of communion with him. At the same time it damages communion with the Church.” (CCC #1440). Penance & Reconciliation are expressed and accomplished liturgically by this sacrament.
The Sacrament of Penance & Reconciliation is fundamentally a joyful encounter with God’s loving mercy and forgiveness and the Church’s reconciling embrace. It requires in response a contrite heart, confession with lips, practice of humility, and fruitful satisfaction.
To read more:
Catechism of the Catholic Church (1422-1498)
HOLY Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles, continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time. This is a sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate (bishop), presbyterate (priest), and diaconate (deacon).
Those who, after being baptized, receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders, also become part of the ministerial or hierarchical priesthood. The ministerial priesthood is at the service of the common priesthood of all the baptized. It is intended to unfold the baptismal grace of all Christians. The ministerial priesthood is the means by which Christ continues to build up and lead his Church.
For more info on Holy Orders and Religious Life reach out to Father Jared at jaredjcostanza@gmail.com