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The Sacraments of Initiation—baptism, confirmation, Eucharist—are celebrated
in the parish according to a set schedule. Specific information and schedules can
be obtained by contacting the parish Director of Religious Education.
Baptisms
Baptisms are celebrated on the first and third Sunday of each month after the 11am
Mass in The Risen Christ Church, South Reward. Preparation classes for both parents
and godparents are required beforehand. To be a godparent (sponsor) a person must
(1.) be designated by the parents or the one who takes their place and have the
qualifications and intention of performing this role: (2) be at least sixteen years
old; (3.) be a Catholic who has been confirmed, has already received the Eucharist
and leads a life in harmony with the faith and the role to be undertaken; (4.) not
be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared; (5.) not be
the father or the mother of the one to be baptized. (see Canon 874).
First Eucharist
First Eucharist is celebrated with children who are in the third grade after they
have completed the necessary instruction at the Catholic schools or the parish program.
Candidates for First Holy Communion and their parents are to participate in the
Sunday Eucharist., There are two Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation and the Anointing
of the Sick.
Confirmation
Confirmation is celebrated annually in the parish. Children as well as adults are
to prepare for the sacrament by obtaining proper instructions. Children attending
Catholic primary schools received classes at their schools. Children who no not
attend Catholic grade schools are enrolled in the parish program held at the Center
for Catechesis. Children to be confirmed must be in the sixth grade. The annual
date for the celebration of the Sacrament of confirmation is set by the Bishop after
consultation with the parish. In 2009 the celebration will be on June 21.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation, formerly called “Confession”, is celebrated prior to
First Holy Communion. The sacrament is also available in the parish upon request
and on Saturday afternoons 5:15-5:45 (Philipsburg). Penitential services with individual
confession and absolution are offered during Lent and Advent.
Reconciliation
Reconciliation, formerly called “Confession”, is celebrated prior to
First Holy Communion. The sacrament is also available in the parish upon request
and on Saturday afternoons 5:15-5:45 (Philipsburg). Penitential services with individual
confession and absolution are offered during Lent and Advent.
Anointing of the Sick
Anointing of the Sick is celebrated upon request with those who are in danger of
death because of a serious illness or old age. The parish priest should be notified
of Catholics who are hospitalized for serious medical reasons so that the sacrament
might be celebrated with them.
There are two Sacraments of Commitment: Ordination and Marriage.
Marriage is a sacrament of commitment between husband and wife. All Catholics are
expected to be married in the Church and not just by the state. The parish requires
all who intend to get married to notify the parish at least three months ahead of
time (preferably six months) so that the necessary preparation can be made. They
are also required to participate in a parish marriage preparation course scheduled
twice a year (February and August). Marriages are celebrated in St. Martin of Tours
parish not only for couples living on the Island of St. Maarten, but also for couples
living off island (e.g. USA, the Netherlands). In both cases the necessary paper
work and preparation is required and must be completed before the marriage celebration.
Parish guidelines are also provided to each couple.
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