Baptism
Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit, and the door that gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church, and made sharers in her mission. Baptism is the sacrament of faith.
Infants and young children are brought to the sacrament of baptism by their parents or guardians. Parents or guardians begin the Baptism Preparation process by completing our online form. Once the form is completed, you will receive an email from either our Pastoral Associate, Timothy Johnston.
Confirmation
“Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for it had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.”
Acts 8:14-17
Confirmation is celebrated annually at Saint Thomas the Apostle.
Young people (Junior & High School age) begin their preparation for this sacrament through our family faith formation process. They enter more fully into the life of the Church through a commitment to worship, service, and learning.
Holy Communion
If you or a loved one is homebound or in a Nursing Home and wishes to receive Holy Communion, please get in touch with the parish secretary at 773-324-2626. They will arrange for one of our dedicated and experienced Ministers of Care to visit you.
If you are in a hospital, please arrange for communion through the local hospital chaplaincy.
Anointing of the Sick
“Is any among you sick? Let him call for the presbyters of the Church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.” James 5: 14
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is offered to those who need healing.
In addition, the Anointing of the Sick may be celebrated at any time by appointment. If you are in a hospital, please arrange with the local hospital chaplaincy for the sacrament. For urgent matters or more information, please call the parish office at (773) 324-2626.
Marriage
Marriage is an occasion of great joy for the whole parish. Parishioners who would like to be married are encouraged to make an appointment to visit with the pastor early in their time of engagement, and at least six months before they hope to be married. Couples often have many questions about this process, and we will try to answer some of them here.
Couples often have many questions about this process, and we will try to answer some of them here.
Holy Orders
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8
Holy Orders enables the Church to have the service of bishops, priests, and deacons. This sacrament is conferred by the Bishop laying hands upon a candidate for Orders. Perhaps you would consider serving as a priest or a deacon in the Church? There is a considerable period of education and discernment.
For more information about vocation to the diaconate or priesthood, read here.