As Christians, we are called to worship God and celebrate the holy Mysteries he has given to us for our sanctification. Through the sacraments, especially Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, we are formed into the Body of Christ and become Church.
On these pages, you will find more information about the sacraments celebrated here at Saint Thomas the Apostle parish.
We hope that you will consider this to be a personal invitation to grace, and a fuller life in Christ.
Baptism
How do I join the congregation?
Membership in the Church is conferred by the Sacrament of Baptism. Jesus commands us to “Baptize all nations in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” (cf. Matthew 28: 19) Saint Thomas the Apostle parish invites everyone to Baptism and membership in the Church.
How do I bring a child for Baptism? How can I be Baptized?
Read more: https://stapostleparish.org/sacraments/baptism/
Reconciliation
Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) we are reconciled to God and to one another. This Mystery of forgiveness and healing is celebrated every Saturday 2:30 pm – 3:30 pm., and every Sunday, 9.00 – 9:45 a.m.
Holy Communion
“I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever” (John 6: 51.)
The Sacrament of Holy Communion is distributed every day at Mass (8.00 a.m.) In addition, we have an afternoon Mass on Saturday (4 p.m.) and a second Mass on Sunday (10 a.m.) Please consult the parish bulletin for special occasions.
Read more: https://stapostleparish.org/sacraments/holy-communion/
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.
If you would like to be Confirmed, read more here: https://stapostleparish.org/sacraments/confirmation/
Marriage
Christian 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. Only registered and participating parishioners are married at St. Thomas the Apostle parish. If you are not currently a registered member of St. Thomas, you are welcome to register. After six months of participation at St. Thomas, you will be eligible to reserve a wedding date for your marriage. Catholics from other parishes are respectfully encouraged to approach their own pastor for permission to marry in their own parish community.
Read more about the Wedding Guidelines for St. Thomas the Apostle parish here: https://stapostleparish.org/sacraments/matrimony/
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 Anointing of the Sick is offered to those who are in need of healing. It may be celebrated at any time by appointment. If you are in the hospital, please arrange with the local hospital chaplaincy for the sacrament. For more information or if in immediate need, please call the parish office at (773) 324-2626.
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, check the ‘vocations’ section at the end of the “Links” page.