Christian Initiation is celebrated in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Through these visible actions a young person is incorporated into the Church and shares its mission in the world. Full initiation into the Church occurs in stages. Sacramental catechesis has traditionally been of two kinds: preparation for the initial celebration of the sacraments and continued enrichment following their first reception.
Requirements for the reception of First Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation are determined by Canon Law according to the following:
Age of reason (to be able to distinguish right from wrong);
Proper knowledge of sacraments;
Emotional and spiritual preparation;
Approval by parent, catechist, Director and Pastor.
The policy of IHM is that a young (baptized) person who plans to receive the sacraments of First Penance and First Holy Communion must have completed one full year of the catechetical program (not counting kindergarten) and be currently enrolled in his/her second year. For confirmation students must be enrolled in the two year program starting in seventh grade.
Second Grade: First Reconciliation Through Reconciliation, we seek forgiveness for our sins and celebrate God’s everlasting love for us. Sin hurts our relationships with God, ourselves, and others. In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, penitents receive absolution and God’s grace.
Second Grade - First Holy Communion The Holy Eucharist is at the center of sacramental life. At Mass, during the Liturgy of the Eucharist, we are nourished by the Body and Blood of Christ, and we renew our commitment to Jesus.
Eighth Grade - Confirmation At Confirmation we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit, we confirm and renew our baptismal promises, and we make a more mature commitment to living a life in the Christian faith.
Outward Signs of Grace
Seven Sacraments of the ChUrch
The saving words and deeds of Jesus Christ are the foundation of what he would communicate in the Sacraments through the ministers of the Church. Through the reception of the Sacraments, God shares his holiness with us so that we, in turn, can make the world holier.
Guided by the Holy Spirit, the Church recognizes the existence of Seven Sacraments instituted by the Lord.
The Sacraments of Initiation Baptism Confirmation Eucharist
The Sacraments of Healing Penance Anointing of the Sick
The Sacraments at the Service of Communion Marriage Holy Orders