“In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" - Matthew 28:19.
This initial sacrament frees us from sin through God’s sanctifying grace. Through the waters of Baptism the Holy Spirit seals us as belonging to Christ. Baptism is the foundation of communion between all Christians.
Join us with other families as you anticipate the Baptism of your child.
We’ll gather together to reflect on the gift of faith, what is Baptism, your desires as parents, and the opportunity to meet other parents.
Parents who desire to have their child baptized, the preparation process includes:
"Let your Spirit come upon these gifts to make them holy, so that they may become for us the body and blood of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Grant that we, who are nourished by his body and blood, may be filled with his Holy Spirit, and become one body, one spirit in Christ." - Eucharistic Prayer
The day of first Holy Communion is the beginning of a new journey with Jesus. Beginning on this day, we are able to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, the Real Presence of Jesus, every day if we so choose. We are certainly encouraged to partake of this sacred feast at least weekly. As we do so, we participate in a special grace that helps us in our daily walk through life. Eucharist also helps us to understand that our walk with Jesus is truly a journey of life that never ends.
Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion at Pax Christi is accomplished through a combination of home and parish preparation sessions. Pax Christi is unique because we offer two options for children preparing for their sacraments, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and Kingdom Kids. Children attending Rochester Catholic Schools will prepare for the Sacraments during their daily religion classes at school. Children from all three options will come together at Pax Christi for 2 retreats and a celebration for each Sacrament.
Parents can find more information and register their children for any of the three options here. We will host a Parent Orientation is in September for both First Reconciliation and First Communion. All children 2nd grade and older are invited to prepare for these Sacraments.
Adults wishing to receive first Eucharist at Pax Christi can get more information here.
Strengthen and Deepen Faith through the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
“All powerful God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by water and the Holy Spirit you freed your sons and daughters from sin. And gave them new life. Send your Holy Spirit upon them to be their helper and guide. Give them the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of right judgment and courage, the spirit of knowledge and reverence. Fill them with the spirit of wonder and awe in your presence. – Rite of Confirmation
Confirmation or Chrismation is the second sacrament of Christian initiation. It is conferred by the anointing with Sacred Chrism (oil mixed with balsam and consecrated by the bishop), which is done by the laying on of hands to be anointed and sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. We pray that the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit take root in us so that we may become signs of God's living presence in the world.
Students in 9th grade begin their journey toward confirmation in small groups that meet at Pax Christi twice a month. Confirmation is celebrated in the spring of 10th grade.
Youth:
For more details, please visit the Confirmation website.