Sacraments
Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community desires to equip and empower her parishioners to be missionary disciples. Part of this discipleship process is within the context of reception of the sacraments. Information regarding our formation processes is below. If you have any questions, or want more information, please contact our main office.
Christian Initiation
Baptism Preparation
Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community seeks to prepare parents for their role as primary educators within the home. “The Christian home is the place where children receive the first proclamation of the faith. For this reason the family home is called the ‘domestic church,’ a community of grace and prayer, a school of human virtues and of Christian Charity” (CCC 1666). Parents of children who are in 1st grade or younger may be advised to take Baptism Preparation in addition to, or in the place of, Christian Initiation classes. The course selection is at the preparer's discretion.
First Reconciliation and Communion
Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community desires to use the sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion as an opportunity to empower parents to be their child(ren)’s “primary educators in the Faith” (CCC 1666). Each student and parent will work together side-by-side using a program curated by Dynamic Catholic. The program is comprehensive for both child and adult, and puts emphasis not just in the knowledge of the Church’s teachings, but also in fostering a relationship with Christ through the scriptures and personal prayer.
Confirmation Catechesis
Mary, Mother of the Church ACC’s Confirmation Catechesis follows the guidelines put in place by the Diocese of St. Cloud (see Sacramental Preparation Guidelines for Confirmation for the Diocese of St. Cloud under ‘Catechetical Resources’). Our program is a 6-week module held in the Fall (September-October) for the entirety of the ACC. Catechumens must attend 6-weeks of catechesis, preparatory and other meetings, a retreat, and complete other outlined activities. Those in their junior year of high school are of age for the reception of this sacrament.
Marriage Preparation
Mary, Mother of the Church Area Catholic Community’s Marriage Catechesis and Preparation follows the policies of the Diocese of St. Cloud. Preparations for Holy Matrimony should begin a minimum of 6 months prior to the proposed wedding date.