Anointing of the Sick
Anointing of the Sick is a ministry of comfort. In this sacrament, a priest lays hands on the head of the sick, prays, and anoints the person with oil – specially-blessed for this occasion. This sacrament can be celebrated more than once and is often conferred in hospitals, nursing homes, or home settings in which someone is approaching death. This sacrament can also be given to people who are seriously ill, elderly, or experiencing severe emotional stress.
In addition, this sacrament is celebrated with an annual Parish Anointing Mass once a year near the feast of St. Luke (patron of physicians) in October. All parishioners are invited to attend the Mass and bring anyone who may need this special blessing.
If you or loved one is in immediate need of pastoral ministry, please call (309) 682-8642, ext. 513 and follow the recorded instructions.
Baptism
Baptism is the celebration of an infant’s initiation into the Catholic faith. Since an infant can’t make an act of faith, the parents and God parents (or sponsors) … and the child’s family accepts responsibility to develop his/her faith. A preparation class is required for first-time parents and is generally offered on the lastSunday of each month at noon in the Rectory. (There is a separate program, called RCIA, for non-Catholic adults wishing to be baptized.)
Baptisms are generally celebrated after the 11 a.m. Mass. For more information on attending a class or scheduling the sacrament, please contact the Rectory at 682-8642.
Confession
Confession provides parishioners the opportunity to acknowledge their sins in the presence of a priest and seek forgiveness. Catholics from any parish are also welcome. A variety of confession times are available, plus special services are offered during Advent and Lent. Prior to making the sacrament of Confession, you may want to review our on-line preparation tools and examination of conscience.
For information about students’ First Reconciliation, please go to the school’s Faith Formation page or contact Judy Martin at 685-1208, ext. 202 or by e-mail at judymart@stphils.com.
Confession Times
Confirmation
Confirmation is offered to St. Philomena students in the eighth grade through the school and parishFaith Formation programs. Adults wishing to be confirmed can do so through the RCIA program.
Holy Communion
Holy Communion is celebrated at all weekday and weekend Masses. See the Mass Times for a complete schedule. For information about students’ First Holy Communion, please go to the school’s Faith Formation page or contact Judy Martin at 685-1208, ext. 202 or judymart@stphils.com.
Matrimony
Matrimony is the sacrament of marriage. Couples should contact one of the priests at least eight months prior to their wedding to schedule a date and set appointments for marriage preparation meetings. Attendance at Pre-Cana or Engaged Encounter is also required, plus a Christian Sexuality workshop or Natural Family Planning class. At least one of the parties should be an active, registered parishioner. Weddings take place at St. Philomena Church on Saturdays at 1 p.m. For more information, contact the Rectory at 682-8642 or rectory@stphils.com.
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