For adults and youth 18 years and older, the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation) are celebrated all at once at the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday). The preparation and celebration of these sacraments is known as the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). See RCIA under Religious Education for further details.
Baptism (to age 7 years)
It is requested that parents seeking Baptism for their child be registered parishioners for at least 6 months before Baptism is arranged. Parents and Godparents must attend a Baptismal Preparation Class. In order to begin the process, the parents must complete the necessary forms obtained from the Parish secretary. Baptism Preparation Classes are generally held twice a month. Spanish classes are held the second Friday and English classes are held the fourth Friday of each month with some exceptions. Baptisms are performed the second and third Sundays of each month, as scheduled by the Parish secretary. Special instruction for Baptism of older children is designed by the OLA Pastor, the Coordinator of Religious Education and the family. Contact the CCD office at 505-256-9818.
First Eucharist and First Reconciliation
Our parish program prepares children to receive these sacraments of initiation beginning in the second grade and completing during the third grade. Students may participate in either our CCD program or our parochial school. Special instruction can be provided in English as well as Spanish for students fourth grade and older to prepare for these sacraments. Contact the Coordinator of Religious Education at 505-256-9818 for details.
Confirmation
High school students who are baptized, received the Sacrament of First Communion, have recently attended CCD or parochial school instruction and are living their Catholic Faith in practice may prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Confirmation instruction is offered in the context of our Total Youth Ministry program. Sponsor and parent involvement is also part of our preparation process. (Note: Special adult Confirmation is also available. Adults must be over 19 years of age, have received Baptism and First Eucharist, and if married, the marriage must have been performed in a Catholic Church or Mission with a Priest or Deacon presiding. Contact the Coordinator of Religious Education at 505-256-9818 for details.)
Anointing of the Sick
Reception of this Sacrament can be arranged by calling the Parish Office at 256-9818. Reconciliation and Eucharist in the home for the sick can be arranged through the Parish Office. Confessions are also available by advanced appointment.
Funerals
The time of the Mass of Resurrection must be coordinated between the Funeral Home and the Parish Secretary. Every effort will be made to accommodate the needs of the family. When the deceased has been cremated, a Memorial Mass can be celebrated during a daily Mass or privately.
Matrimony
The normal procedure is for the celebration of the sacrament of matrimony to take place in the parish where the bride or groom is registered. Marriage preparation usually takes 4 to 6 months; therefore, the couple must contact the Parish Office at least 6 months prior to the time they wish to receive this sacrament. Appointments will require 1 hour during the day and must be arranged with the Parish Secretary at 505-256-9818.
Holy Orders
Anyone wishing information about the Sacrament of Holy Orders should contact the Parish Office at 256-9818 and make an appointment with the Pastor or Parochial Vicar.