Treasures from Our Tradition

Eastern Christians have no sacrament of “confirmation,” but they have always had the custom of richly anointing the newly baptized in myron, or sacred chrism. They also give even infants a taste of the Precious Blood, thereby doing away with any notion of “First Communion” in later childhood.

In the West, although we too have an anointing with chrism for the newly baptized, for centuries we have normally reserved a second anointing for the bishop, sometimes many years after baptism. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which is the fact that in early times the bishop was the ordinary person to officiate at baptism, not the presybyter (priest). The bishop did it all, from plunging the catechumens into the font, to pouring chrism over them, to immediately celebrating the Eucharist.

When bishops began to cede some of their ministry to the ranks of presbyters, they desired to maintain a strong relationship with baptism. Thus it was decided that the solemn post-baptismal anointing, the laying on of hands, and the prayer for the gifts of the Holy Spirit were to be detached from infant baptism. So, to the present day, we have two anointings after baptism: one by the priest, and the other normally by the bishop. By the fifth century, the word “confirmation” had surfaced to refer to this second anointing.

—Rev. James Field

We are his people the sheep of his flock.

Serve With Us

Our parish is a family of faith, and every member has a role to play. Prayerfully consider sharing your time and talents in one of our important ministries.

We are looking for volunteers!

• Ushers: welcome parishioners and guests, assist with seating, and help create a warm and reverent environment.
• Sacristians: prepare the church and altar for Mass, care for the sacred vessels and linens, and support the celebration of the Liturgy.
• Lectors: proclaim the Word of God with clarity and devotion, helping to bring Scripture to life at Mass.
• Volunteers: many hands make light work! There are many ways to serve our parish and make a difference.

Together, we build the kingdom of God. Thank you for your willingness to serve! Let your faith in action inspire others!

Ask for Angel, our Parish Secretary
Interested? Please contact the parish office.