Sacraments of the Catholic Church

Sacraments of Initiation

These sacraments lay the foundation of every Christian life.

Baptism -- In Baptism we receive new life in Christ. Baptism takes away original sin and gives us a new birth in the Holy Spirit. Baptism is received only once.
Confirmation -- Confirmation seals our life of faith in Jesus. Its signs are the laying on of hands on a person’s head, most often by a bishop, and the anointing with oil. Like Baptism, Confirmation is received only once. Contact Jessica Pancho for more information regarding Confirmation of teens in the Diocese of Des Moines, or for assistance with adults seeking full communion within the Catholic Church please contact John Gaffney.
Eucharist -- The Eucharist nourishes our life of faith. Contact the worship office for assistance for adults seeking full communion within the Catholic Church.

These sacraments celebrate the healing power of Jesus.

Reconciliation -- Through Reconciliation we receive God’s forgiveness. Forgiveness requires being sorry for our sins. In Reconciliation we receive Jesus’ healing grace through absolution by the priest. The signs of this sacrament are our confession of sins and the words of absolution.
Anointing of the Sick -- This sacrament unites a sick person’s suffering with that of Jesus and brings forgiveness of sins. Oil, a symbol of strength, is the sign of this sacrament. A person is anointed with oil and receives the laying on of hands from a priest.

These sacraments help members serve the community.

Holy Orders -- In Holy Orders men are ordained as priests, deacons, or bishops. Priests serve as spiritual leaders of their communities, and deacons serve to remind us of our baptismal call to help others. Bishops carry on the teachings of the apostles. The signs of this sacrament are the laying on of hands and anointing with oil by the bishop. Contact Father Ross Parker for more information regarding Holy Orders in the Diocese of Des Moines.
Matrimony -- In Matrimony, a baptized man and woman are united with each other as a sign of the unity between Jesus and His Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage promises. The couple and their wedding rings are the signs of this sacrament. Contact John Gaffney for assistance in marriage preparation or marriage support.