According to the Sacraments of Initiation Policies for the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, the following needs to be noted:
The Sacraments of Initiation offer opportunities for all persons to become full and active members within a parish Faith community. As a result, parishes have the primary responsibility for the initiation of their members.
The celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation ordinarily takes place in the Parish Community of membership for the candidate, regardless of where the catechetical preparation occurs.
The Sacraments of Initiation: First Eucharist and Confirmation
First Eucharist and Confirmation fall under St. Mary Magdalene's Faith Formation Office for preparation and organization of the participants.
In order for the SMM Faith Formation Office to include a participant for either First Eucharist or Confirmation, we MUST receive registration for the sacrament by completing the digital form below. Failure to REGISTER YOUR CHILD for a sacrament will result in the Faith Formation NOT having the information to include your child in the group. Any questions can be directed to Melissa Viator, Pastoral Associate/Director of Religious Education, 412.661.7222 x 5, [email protected]
First Reconciliation and First Eucharist
Parent(s)/Guardians of candidates for 1st Reconciliation and 1st Eucharist will receive information regarding a Retreat (Day of Reflection) and Parent/Guardian Meeting in October to prepare for both sacraments. All families should participate in these events.
FYI… low-gluten family members: To ensure your participation, please be aware that you may request to receive a low-gluten (it’s very low) host during Eucharist.
Confirmation
Parent(s)/Guardians of Confirmation Candidates in the Eighth Grade will receive information regarding a meeting in October, which at least one parent and their candidate are expected to attend.
Highlights of the Confirmation Preparation include:
A Confirmation Holy Hour/Retreat and continual participation at weekend Liturgies
Ongoing parish/community/world service
Prayer of discernment for means of sharing gifts in everyday life
