Sacraments of Initiation
Baptism
Baptism is the door to the Sacraments of the Catholic Church. The process for Baptism varies with age and is discussed below.
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Baptism of Children under 7 years of age
The baptism of children occurs monthly, once in English and once in Spanish, in a group setting. We ask that both parents godparents participate in Baptism preparation, either at the Cathedral Basilica or in your own parish. Please click here to read more about our policy, including requirements for Godparents.
· Baptism of Children ages 7 – 17 (RCIC)
Any unbaptized child over the age of 7 must participate in the RCIC (Rite of Christian Initiation for Children). Classes meet on Sunday mornings, beginning in October and concluding on the Feast of Pentecost. This process includes not only Baptism, but Eucharist and Confirmation as well. We ask you to please register in person in our parish office during the months of July and August. Call (408) 283-8100, extension 2200 for fee and other program details.
Baptism of Adults (RCIA)
Adults who wish to be baptized must participate in the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults). Classes meet on Wednesday evenings, beginning in October and concluding on the Feast of Pentecost. This process includes not only Baptism, but Eucharist and Confirmation as well. Initiation will take place during the celebration of the Easter Vigil. Adults who are already baptized but are seeking to complete their initiation into the life of the Church through Eucharist and Confirmation will also participate in this program.
Confirmation
The Confirmation Preparation Program for baptized teens ages 15 - 17 years and/or in grades 10 -12 meets weekly and begins during the first week of October. The Sacrament of Confirmation is administered during the weeks following Easter. A certificate of baptism is required for registration. Children and Adults who are unbaptized are to participate in the RCIA process described above.
Eucharist (First Communion)
Baptized children in grades 2 through 9 is an eight month program beginning in the fall. Classes meet on Sunday mornings - at either 9:45 a.m. or 11:15 a.m. The children traditionally receive their First Communion during the month of May. A certificate of Baptism must be presented at the time of registration. Registration begins in August and space is limited so please register early. Unbaptized children are prepared for Holy Communion and Baptism through the RCIC which is described above. Adults, both baptized and unbaptized, are to participate in the RCIA.
SACRAMENTS OF HEALING
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available Monday through Friday at 11:45 a.m., and Saturdays at 4:00 p.m.; you may also call the parish to schedule an appointment with a priest.
Anointing of the Sick
This is a special grace that conveys God's strength and life amid a most difficult time of our human lives. This Sacrament is also offered in conjunction with the Sacrament of Reconciliation to those who are ill and seek forgiveness for their sins. Parishioners are encouraged to notify the parish for the sacrament prior to entering the hospital or convalescent care
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Who should receive the Anointing of the Sick?
- Someone facing major surgery
- A person diagnosed with a terminal illness
- The frail at any age or the elderly
- People who are at the end time of their lives
- Acute patients in the care of a hospital, especially those in the Emergency Room and Intensive Care Unit
SACRAMENTS OF COMMUNION AND SERVICE
Matrimony
We are able to schedule weddings for people who are registered members of the Cathedral parish as well as those who attend other parishes. We recommend allowing eight months to one year for the scheduling of your date. We are available to answer your questions throughout the time between establishing the reservation and the date of the wedding. Please click here to read our policy as follows to learn more about the Sacrament of Matrimony and other details concerning Cathedral weddings
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Holy Orders
The unique ministry of the Apostles is continued in our day by those within the church called by God to Holy Orders - bishops, priests and deacons. These men, having received the sacrament by the laying on of hands by a successor to the Apostles, the bishop, serve the People of God in a variety of ways, primarily through the preaching of the Word, serving as pastors to the Lord's own flock, and through the administration of the sacraments.