The Holy Mysteries
The Seven Sacraments are sacred signs instituted by Christ to give grace and sanctify our lives
In the Eastern tradition, the sacraments are called "Mysteries" (Syriac: Roze) because they reveal the hidden presence of God in visible signs. Through these sacred actions, we encounter Christ and receive His grace for our journey of faith.
Baptism
المعمودية
Baptism is the first of the Mysteries of Initiation, through which we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, and incorporated into the Church. In the Maronite tradition, Baptism is immediately followed by Chrismation and First Holy Communion.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •Parents must be registered parishioners
- •At least one godparent must be a practicing Catholic
- •Baptismal preparation class required
- •Birth certificate required
To Schedule: Contact the parish office at least 2 months before desired date
Chrismation (Confirmation)
التثبيت
Chrismation, known in the Western Church as Confirmation, is the Mystery by which we receive the seal of the Holy Spirit. In the Maronite tradition, this sacrament is conferred immediately after Baptism, along with First Holy Communion.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •Administered at Baptism for infants
- •For those baptized in other traditions, preparation classes required
- •Active participation in parish life
To Schedule: Contact the parish office for more information
Holy Eucharist
القربان المقدس
The Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of our Christian life. In the Maronite Divine Liturgy, we celebrate the sacrifice of Christ using leavened bread (Qurbono), reflecting the risen nature of Christ.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •First Communion is received at Baptism
- •For those who have not received, preparation through Religious Education
- •State of grace required (free from mortal sin)
To Schedule: See Religious Education for First Communion preparation
Confession (Reconciliation)
التوبة
The Mystery of Reconciliation restores us to God's grace when we have fallen into sin. Through the priest, Christ offers us forgiveness and healing, reconciling us to God and the Church.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •Examination of conscience
- •Contrition for sins
- •Confession to a priest
- •Penance and resolution to avoid sin
To Schedule: Available Saturday 4:00-4:45 PM or by appointment
Holy Matrimony
الزواج
Christian Marriage is a covenant by which a man and woman establish a partnership for life. The Maronite wedding ceremony, called the Crowning, beautifully symbolizes the couple as king and queen of their domestic church.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •At least one spouse must be Catholic
- •Freedom to marry (no previous marriages unless annulled)
- •Marriage preparation program (6 months)
- •Pre-Cana classes or approved equivalent
- •Meeting with pastor
To Schedule: Contact the parish office at least 6 months before desired date
Anointing of the Sick
مسحة المرضى
The Mystery of the Anointing of the Sick provides spiritual strength and, when God wills, physical healing to those who are seriously ill or preparing for surgery. It may be received more than once.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •Serious illness or advanced age
- •Before major surgery
- •When health condition worsens
To Schedule: Contact the parish office or call the emergency line for urgent cases
Holy Orders
الكهنوت
Through Holy Orders, men are ordained as deacons, priests, or bishops to serve the Church. Maronite priests may be either celibate or married (if married before ordination). The Maronite Church welcomes married men to the permanent diaconate.
Requirements & Guidelines
- •Discernment with spiritual director
- •Seminary formation
- •Approval by the bishop
To Schedule: Contact the Eparchy of Saint Maron for vocations information
Preparing to Receive a Sacrament?
Our parish staff is here to guide you through the preparation process. Contact us to begin your journey.