St. John Neumann Church

Sacraments

An essential element of our Catholic faith is our belief that in the Seven Sacraments we encounter Jesus Christ and in that encounter we are made more holy. For this reason, we give serious attention to the preparation of our people, both children and adults, for these sacramental encounters.

Marriage

The Diocese of Charleston requires that preparation for marriage must begin at least six months prior to the celebration of the sacrament. Please contact the pastor at 788-0811. Both Pre-Cana and Engaged Encounter are available in the Diocese of Charleston.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

This is a process through which people become members of the Roman Catholic Church. This formation involves growing in the life of the Church through prayer and study and culminates in full communion with the Church at the Easter Vigil. Beginning in October, informal inquiry classes are held on Wednesday evenings in the Teen Room. Interested persons should contact the parish office at 788-3252, ext. 18.

Baptism

Parents wishing to have a child baptized must be registered members of the parish. On the first Sunday of each month a parent's preparation session is held at 6:00 p.m. in the Teen Room next to the parish offices at the school. At least one parent must attend this meeting. Those planning to attend this meeting should notify the parish office at 788-3252, ext. 18. Baptisms are held twice a month, once during Mass and once on Sunday afternoon. The selected dates will be made available at the monthly
parent meeting.

First Reconciliation and First Communion

Second grade children in both the school and in the parish religious education program are prepared for these two sacraments. Parents of children who are beyond the
second grade should contact the Office of Christian Formation to make special arrangements. Parents or guardians of these children are expected to attend three special parent sessions in the course of the year. They will be notified of the dates and times of these meeting.

Confirmation

St. John Neumann students are prepared for confirmation in the 9th grade. The date for confirmation is determined by the bishop's office. It is usually celebrated in May.