Sacraments
"Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons and daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission..."
-(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213)
Baptism
Infant Baptism
Baptism is the first Sacrament of Christian Initiation. Baptism of infants is arranged by calling the office to secure a date and time. For a child to be baptized at All Saints his/her parents must be registered and practicing Catholics.
In order to prepare and more deeply understand this important sacrament, All Saints offers a Baptism preparation class for parents. These classes are held on the first Monday of the month. Please call the Parish Office to register for the class.
Parents are asked to choose someone to serve as godparent or sponsor for their child. Since the sponsor’s role is to assist parents in passing on the faith in which the child is being baptized, parents should choose someone who will take the role seriously and will be a good role model for the child. Church law sets minimum requirements: at least 16 years old, already confirmed, and a practicing Catholic.
If you would like to schedule a Baptism, please contact the parish office at 636-397-1440, ext. 221.
Adult Baptism
Click here to see Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."
--Matthew 28:19-20
Back to Top
Reconciliation
“When he celebrates the sacrament of Penance, the priest is fulfilling the ministry of the Good Shepherd who seeks the lost sheep, of the Good Samaritan who binds up wounds, of the Father who awaits the prodigal son and welcomes him on his return, and of the just and impartial judge whose judgment is both just and merciful. The priest is the sign and the instrument of God's merciful love for the sinner.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1465)
The Sacrament of Penance is the sacrament of spiritual healing. Reconciliation involves contrition, confession to a priest, absolution by the priest, and penance. After making an examination of conscience, the penitent confesses his/her sins to the priest, who is the minister of Christ’s mercy. The intent of this sacrament is to provide healing for the soul as well as to regain the grace of God, lost by sin.
Jesus said to them again,
"Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you."
And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said,
"Receive the holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained."
--John 20:21-23
Celebrating Reconciliation
Weekly and by Appointment at Your Convenience
TUESDAY: 7:10pm to 8:00pm
SATURDAY: Confessions are heard from 4:00 to 4:45pm or by appointment.
There are weekly celebrations of the sacrament in church every Saturday afternoon from 4:00 – 4:45 p.m. And also on Tuesdays from 7:10pm to 8:00pm. If it is not possible for an individual to come at that time, he or she should feel free to call one of the parish priests to arrange an appointment. The priests are more than happy to do this.
Services of Reconciliation
During Advent and Lent the priests of the parish lead the community in communal prayer services followed by individual confessions.
Initiation to the Sacrament of Reconciliation
The normal time for the first celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation with children in our parish shall be in the first semester of their second grade year followed by their first reception of the Eucharist during the second semester. The parents of children enrolled in All Saints School or All Saints Parish School of Religion or Home School Programs shall be expected to complete a program of catechesis concerning the Sacrament of Reconciliation within the context of their own adult spiritual life prior to their requesting this sacrament for their children.
Back to Top
Holy Eucharist
“At the heart of the Eucharistic celebration are the bread and wine that, by the words of Christ and the invocation of the Holy Spirit, become Christ's Body and Blood. Faithful to the Lord's command the Church continues to do, in his memory and until his glorious return, what he did on the eve of his Passion: "He took bread... ." "He took the cup filled with wine. . . " The signs of bread and wine become, in a way surpassing understanding, the Body and Blood of Christ.”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1333)
Source and Summit
The Eucharist is the “source and summit of the Christian life,” and the third sacrament of initiation. "It is the culmination both of God's action sanctifying the world in Christ and of the worship men offer to Christ and through him to the Father in the Holy Spirit." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324,1325)
The Eucharist: Faith Facts
Before one receives Holy Communion, it is appropriate to bow before the Sacred Host or Chalice, because the bread and wine have truly become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. After the priest or minister says, “The Body of Christ” or “The Blood of Christ,” we respond, “Amen,” and receive the Body of Christ on the tongue or in the hand, consuming it immediately. The Blood of Christ we drink, holding the chalice reverently and returning it to the priest or minister.
I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever;
and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
–John 6:51
Initiation to the Eucharist
Children are generally admitted to Communion during 2nd Grade. Children must be enrolled in the religious education program for at least one year before the year in which they are admitted to Holy Communion.
If a child is older than 2nd Grade and has not received Communion, the parents should contact Mary Grace Villmer to make appropriate arrangements.
Back to Top
Confirmation
“The reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For "by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1285)
It is called Confirmation because it confirms and strengthens baptismal grace. Through this sacrament, the grace given in baptism is deepened.
Confirmation for Youth
Confirmation for youth generally takes place during 8th Grade. In order to be confirmed an individual must participate in the religious education program for at least one year prior to the year in which he or she will be confirmed.
In addition to reflecting on their faith in classes, candidates are asked to participate in service projects, a day of prayer, and an evening of reflection on service with other parishioners.
If an individual is beyond 8th Grade and has not received the sacrament, he or she should contact Deacon Gary Meyerkord to make proper arrangements. The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated as a parish at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, usually sometime shortly after Easter.
Confirmation for Adults
Occasionally, for various reasons, an individual has not been confirmed while in his/her childhood or youth. Adults who are not yet confirmed are invited to call the parish office to make arrangements to celebrate this sacrament. After a brief preparation program held in the spring of the year, these adults and young adults will be confirmed at the St. Louis Basilica Cathedral on Pentecost Sunday.
Back to Top
Matrimony
"The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament.”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1601)
Preparation For Marriage
Married couples, in virtue of their Sacrament of Matrimony, express and share in the mystery of marital love that exists between Christ and the Church. Through your preparation and entering into this holy vocation as married persons you are a symbol of unconditional love and intimate communion between Jesus, (the Groom) and the Church (His bride).
To witness the love of a man and woman made holy in the Sacrament of Matrimony is to see concretely the love between Christ and His Church. Marriage fills us with great joy and gratitude. That is why we take the preparation and celebration of this sacrament seriously.
Planning
Engaged couples planning to be married at All Saints should make contact with one of the priests or deacons of the parish at least six months before they plan to marry, but should know that many couples do so at least a year prior to their preferred date.
Definite plans for a wedding date should not be decided until such contact has been made and the couples’ readiness for a sacramental marriage has been determined.
Preparation for marriage involves the couple completing the FOCCUS pre-marital inventory process, participating in any one of several Marriage Preparation Programs, planning the wedding ceremony with the presiding priest or deacon.
The couples are responsible for arranging/booking music ministers, selecting hymns and music, and arranging lectors and extraordinary ministers of Communion, if applicable. (The Director of Liturgy & Music is available to assist with this process if necessary).
The couples are responsible for arranging/booking music ministers, selecting hymns and music, and arranging lectors and extraordinary ministers of Communion, if applicable. (The Director of Liturgy & Music is available to assist with this process if necessary). Please see Wedding Music Suggestions to listen to wedding music suggestions.
As you begin to prepare for marriage please click here to read and familiarize yourself with the Guidelines for All Saints!
Annulments
Often individuals are not fully participating in the life of the church because of divorce and remarriage. Others, civilly divorced, have questions regarding the previous marriage. Any of the parish priests would happily meet with you to discuss the status and possibilities of these particular situations.
For more information please contact the parish office.
Back to Top
Holy Orders
“Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to his apostles continues to be exercised in the Church until the end of time: thus it is the sacrament of apostolic ministry. It includes three degrees: episcopate, presbyterate, and diaconate.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1536)
“The sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred by the laying on of hands followed by a solemn prayer of consecration asking God to grant the ordinand the graces of the Holy Spirit required for his ministry. Ordination imprints an indelible sacramental character.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1597)
For Holy Orders or interest in the vocations, contact the Fr. Don or one of the other priests or deacons.
Priesthood and Diaconate
The Church calls some of its members to ordination and service within the faith community as priests and deacons. Most often this call is first recognized and encouraged by the family and the parish.
It is a life-choice further strengthened through programs of education and formation provided by our archdiocese. As a parish we pray for and support those who are making these life-commitments of service and leadership within the Church.
Vowed Religious Life
In the tradition of our faith, adult men and women continue to choose to serve others as brothers and sisters living in community. Their life-styles are shaped by the Gospel values of poverty, obedience, and chastity, serving the Church and the world in a variety of ways. As a parish we provide information and encouragement concerning the vowed religious life and offer support for those who are seeking to make such a commitment.
Back to Top
Annointing of the Sick
The sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given to those who are seriously ill by anointing them on the forehead and hands with duly blessed oil—pressed from olives or from other plants—saying, only once: "Through this holy anointing may the Lord in his love and mercy help you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. May the Lord who frees you from sin save you and raise you up." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1513)
- Anointing of the Sick includes (CCC 1519):
- The laying on of hands by the priest.
- Prayer over the person “in the faith of the Church.”
- Anointing with oil blessed by the bishop.
- This sacrament has a powerful effect upon the sick person (CCC 1520-21):
- Strengthening, peace and courage to overcome the difficulties that go with the condition of serious illness or the frailty of old age”
- “Healing of the soul, but also of the body if such is God's will.
- Forgiveness of sin.
- “Union with the passion of Christ.” One’s suffering becomes “a participation in the saving work of Jesus.”
- Allows the sick person, by their suffering, to "contribute to the good of the People of God," building up the holiness of the Church and all people.
- “A preparation for the final journey.”
This sacrament is primarily intended for any who suffer from serious or chronic physical or emotional illness or who struggle with the infirmities of age. One need not be in danger of death nor does the Church anoint one who has already died.
Pastoral Care of the Sick
Hospital Visitation
The priests and lay ministers of the parish are interested in visiting parishioners when they are in the hospital. However, hospitals no longer automatically inform parishes when a parishioner is admitted. We will be able to visit only if we know you are in a hospital. It is most helpful to us when you or a family member notifies the Parish Office.
Communion for the Sick
Holy Communion is brought once a week to those who are sick or unable to go to church on a regular basis. If you or a family member wants to receive communion at home on a regular or temporary basis, please call the parish office.
Individual Anointing
If you are scheduled to go to the hospital for surgery or extended care, contact the rectory BEFORE you go, in order to arrange for the celebration of the Sacrament.
This sacrament is for the sick or the chronically ill as well as for those who are near death. Individuals in hospitals should ask the chaplain there for the sacrament. Those who are in Barnes St. Peters Hospital should call All Saints to arrange for anointing.
Communal Anointing
Periodically during the year the Sacrament of the Sick is celebrated at Mass for all of those who need the grace of healing and hope provided in this sacrament. The parish celebrates the Sacrament of the Sick for all who would like to receive it after 9:00 am Mass on the First Saturday of the month.
In Case Of Death
Although the Church does not anoint one who has already died, priests may be invited to minister to the family and lead the prayers at the time of death as provided by the Church.
Why Should You be Annointed Before Going to the Hospital?
While patients and hospital staff can, very fortunately, call for the sacramental and pastoral services of a Catholic priest while in the hospital, a new fact of hospital life today is that patients are often very swiftly in and out of treatment. It is possible that the priest will not be able to see you as soon as you wish.
Therefore, it is better for you to talk to a priest here in our parish before you go to the hospital and receive those sacraments that are available for those facing surgery, serious illness, or old age: Penance, the Anointing of the Sick, and the Eucharist.
In addition, the priests as well as the members of our parish who are involved in our hospital care-giving ministry and home visitation will know about your illness and will be able to visit and support you through your recovery.
Many people tend to deny that they are sick and in need of prayers. This is a very human response. However, it keeps sufferers from receiving what they need and deserve – and what the Church is ready to offer.
There is a special communion rite, called Viaticum, and special prayers reserved for people close to death, but the other rites of pastoral care for the sick are intended for those who are seriously ill, facing surgery, or struggling with the frailties of old age.
Finally, your attitude during sickness or suffering will be helped by your stronger identification with Christ. Sickness is not a total disaster. If we turn to God with our complaints and fears, letting God answer us in God’s own way, and if we cooperate with those who can help us, then any sickness can end in God’s glory and prepare us for greater happiness.
Back to Top
Devotions
Eucharistic Adoration
On the First Friday and First Saturday of every month our parish comes together for 12 hours of continuous prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
Adoration begins with Evening Prayer at 7:00 pm from the Liturgy of the Hours concluding with Benediction.
There are scheduled hours of prayer throughout the night or you may drop by whenever it may be convenient. Adoration ends with Morning Prayer at 7:30 am followed by Mass at 8:00 am.
Adoration is also offered on Tuesday evenings of every week, beginning with Exposition at 7:00 pm, and concluding with Night Prayer and Benediction at 8:15 pm. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will also be offered from 7:00 to 8:15.
Adoration is the first attitude of man acknowledging that he is a creature before his Creator. It exalts the greatness of the Lord who made us and the almighty power of the Savior who sets us free from evil. Adoration is homage of the spirit to the "King of Glory," respectful silence in the presence of the "ever greater" God. Adoration of the thrice-holy and sovereign God of love blends with humility and gives assurance to our supplications. —Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 2628
Devotions of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Celebrated after the 8:00 a.m. Mass on Tuesday of every week.
Rosary
There is a public recitation of the Rosary at 7:30 am Sunday, and at 4:30 pm Saturday.
Back to Top