•      The celebration of the Sacraments of the Catholic Church is one of the most significant functions of the parish in bringing souls to Christ. These include baptism, First Reconciliation/First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Marriage, and Rite of Christian Initiation.

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  Baptism of Youth and Adults
       Baptism is generally done as an infant in the Catholic Church. If you have a newborn you will be asked to attend a baptism class prior to the event. Baptisms are usually done after the 11:00 am Mass on Sunday.
       Additionally, anyone who is above the age of reason and has not been baptized and desires baptism may choose to be baptized in the Catholic Church.  

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  First Reconciliation/ First Holy Communion
       The reception of these Sacraments requires that the recipient has attained age 7 (considered the age of reason).  During the Youth Religious Education program, when students begin their second-grade year, families are invited to participate in preparation for these Sacraments.
       If for any reason your child is older than 7 and has not yet had the opportunity to prepare for these sacraments the religious education/evangelization office is happy to assist you in this.
       Additionally, if your child attends a Catholic School and is receiving preparation there, he or she may receive First Reconciliation/First Holy Communion at his or her home parish of St. Ann. 

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  Confirmation
       The program for sacramental prep begins in 8th grade and continues through 9th grade. It is a two-year process. The Diocese has recommended a 2-year program, and that is what we do at St. Ann. It is also open to all high school students with the prereq of having attending faith formation at a parish and/or religious formation through school. For more information on youth, Confirmation click HERE.
       Adults who have not been confirmed are welcome to prepare at any time as well.  Bishop Bradley celebrates Confirmation for adults who are prepared in both the Spring and Fall. 

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  Marriage
       Parishioners considering engagement or who are already engaged are invited to contact the religious education/evangelization office to learn about the marriage preparation process at St. Ann.  Be sure to allow 6-12 months for wedding preparations which include marriage prep classes and a retreat.
       Weddings rehearsals are generally scheduled on Friday evenings at 5:00 pm and weddings occur on Saturdays at 11:00 am. 

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  Rite of Christian Initiation
       The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is an ongoing process of inquiry, discovery, and prayer that helps one discern the voice of God — in  community  in Church and in the depths of one’s heart.
       To find out more about becoming  Catholic  click HERE.

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    Pat Vanderpool
    Director of Religious Education
    269-731-0295
    patvstannaugusta.org

• Bishop Barron on Baptism

• Bishop Barron Discusses Confirmation

• Catholics Come Home