General Notes on all Sacramental Prep
All sacramental preparation with children is done within the family unit. Our Religious Education curriculum supports, supplements, and reinforces the instruction for the individual sacraments. Each family preparing a child(ren) to receive a sacrament is provided with;

• family friendly materials (including learning, prayer, and service activities)
• parent information and preparation sessions on the individual sacraments
• opportunities to gather with other families for prayer and catechesis
• parish celebrations of the sacraments

If a family, for whatever reason, is not able to or chooses not to enter the sacramental preparation process at the traditional time, they are free to do so when it is appropriate for their family.

Baptism
Infant Baptisms take place on the second and fourth Sunday of the month at 1:00 PM or at Mass upon request. Parents are required to be registered and active members of our parish. Parents are required to attend our Baptismal Preparation Program on the 1st Tuesday of the month. Attendance at class before the birth of the child is allowed. Parents are asked to choose a godfather and a godmother who will take the role seriously and be a good role model for the child. Church law sets minimum requirements for godparents: at least 16 years old, already confirmed and a practicing Catholic. Non-registered members who request a Baptism for their child are required to attend a Baptismal Preparation Class at their own parish and present a letter from their Pastor giving Our Lady of the Brook permission to baptize their child. Call the rectory to make arrangements.

Reconciliation
Preparation Classes for the first reception of this Sacrament takes place in second grade prior to the reception of the Eucharist. It may also take place in later years. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated every Saturday at 11:00 AM until all confessions are heard. Communal Reconciliation Services are planned in Advent and Lent. For other times, please call the rectory to make an appointment.

Eucharist
The celebration of the Eucharist is a central part of our faith community at Our Lady of the Brook. Please consult the schedule for the times of the Masses. Preparation for the first reception of this Sacrament is traditionally done in the second grade, but may be done in later years. Please call the Religious Education Office to register.

If you are sick, homebound, hospitalized or in a nursing home, please contact the rectory to arrange for Holy Communion to be brought to you.

Parish Teen Confirmation
Preparation classes for Confirmation typically begin in the Freshman year (9th grade) and the candidates are confirmed in the spring of their Sophomore year (10th grade). However, older teens are also welcome to enter our preparation process. Please call the Religious Education Office to register.

Vicariate Teen Confirmation Process
Juniors and Seniors in high school who have been baptized and have received the Eucharist but have never been confirmed are invited to enter Our Lady of the Brook’s preparation process. Alternatively they are also invited to join the Vicariate Teen Confirmation Process. This takes place every spring. For more information contact the Religious Education Office.

Marriage
Couples requesting to be married at Our Lady of the Brook are required to contact the parish at least six months prior to setting dates or making plans. Marriage Preparation Classes are required. Please call the rectory for more information