Sacramental Preparation

Preparation for the Sacraments takes place in meetings that are separate from Religious Education in the parish or school. These preparation meetings have a special focus on preparing to actually receive a Sacrament (not simply learning about them as we do in every grade of Religious Education in the parish or school). We unite all our parish's children and parents in preparation when the parents discern their child is ready--no matter what grade they are in (after age 7 which follows canon law). Parents meet in concurrent sessions to support their own journey as a disciple of Jesus Christ and to equip them to actively participate in their child's Sacramental preparation. Preparation for the 3 Sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist is a 1 1/2 year process.

Reconciliation (Penance): Children are usually prepared to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation in 1st or 2nd grade (after age 7, after child can read easily on their own). Reconciliation Preparation takes place on Sunday mornings (10:00-11:15am) and begins on December 11, 2022 (download brochure for the entire schedule).

Confirmation/First Holy Eucharist: Children must first be prepared and celebrate Reconciliation.  Children usually prepare for Confirmation and First Holy Eucharist in 3rd grade.  The Diocese of Spokane is a "restored order" diocese, which means children are prepared for and receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist at the same Mass. Confirmation/First Eucharist preparation takes place on Sunday mornings (10:00-11:15am) and begins on October 2, 2022 (download brochure for the entire schedule).

Baptism of Older Children: Children under the age of 7 can be prepared for Baptism alone and then join with the Sacramental Preparation programs for Reconciliation and then Confirmation/Holy Eucharist.  Children over age 7 need to be prepared to receive all 3 Sacraments of Initiation at the same time (Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist) at our Easter Vigil Mass.  Please contact Marie Bricher for more information and to schedule preparation in these circumstances: 509-928-3210, ext. 111, [email protected]

Confirmation of Older Children & Youth: Families moving to the Diocese from other areas may have children who need to "catch up" on the Sacrament of Confirmation.  Please contact Marie Bricher to schedule preparation for your child: 509-928-3210, ext. 111, [email protected]