BAPTIZED CATHOLIC Children who were NOT enrolled in classes last year, and who are preparing to receive First Reconciliation and First Communion. In order for a child who was baptized Catholic to receive the Sacraments of First Eucharist and/or Confirmation in the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Austin, a child is required to have at least two consecutive years of formal religious education. This can take place in a Catholic School or a Parish Religious Education program. Therefore if you are seeking those Sacraments for a child who has not previously received formal Catechesis or has been away from formal Catechesis for a while, the Special Sacraments class is for them.
UNBAPTIZED children: If a child is unbaptized but desiring to receive the Sacraments of Initiation, they must have full instruction in the faith, along with their family. The Special Sacraments class is specifically geared for these children. Parents are required to participate with their children on Sundays, as well.
Attendance is required, and three excused absences are allowed (due to sickness, death of a loved one, etc.). Please call Kate Barta at (512) 352-2175 to discuss your family's specific situation and to ask any questions on requirements for Sacramental Prep.
"Train up a child in the way he should go, And even when he is old he will not depart from it." ~ Proverbs 22:6
The most important factor in raising our children in the faith, hope and love of Christ is to live that life ourselves, and to overflow that relationship onto our children. To that end, everything we do in parish catechesis begins with that training. Specifically, families should:
attend Sunday Mass (or the Saturday evening Vigil Mass)
participate in the life of the parish
pray as a family
be open to God's blessing and direction in our lives