Sacraments

Sacraments of Initiation

• Baptism:

The Sacrament of Baptism marks a child's formal initiation into the Christian community. It should be an occasion for the parents, relatives and the entire parish to renew and reaffirm the commitment of their faith. Baptism is a seed to be nurtured by the parents and the parish.

The Sacrament of Baptism is generally administered every Sunday at 1:30 PM. Please contact the rectory (732) 270-3980 during your pregnancy and make an appointment to see a Priest or Deacon to make arrangements for your baby's Baptism, and set the date.  A session of Baptism Workshop is required for parents and whenever possible by the godparents prior to the baptism.

• Confirmation:

Children of the parish usually receive the Sacrament of Confirmation upon completion of their grade seven studies. This sacrament takes two consecutive years of regular attendance in the Confirmation preparation program.. Parents are expected to take an active role in their child's preparation for Confirmation. For more information refer to the religious education section of the website or call the St. Justin's School of religion at (732) 270-3797.

• First Communion or First Eucharist:

The children of the parish celebrate their First Communion as a group during the fall of the third year in the religious education program.  Parental participation during this formation process is very important.  More information can viewed on the religious education section of the website or call the St. Justin's School of religion at (732) 270-3797.

• RCIA (Catechumenate):

Vatican II has restored the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. Our Bishop has requested that every parish establish an ongoing program to provide those interested with information, support and encouragement toward becoming baptized members of the Roman Catholic Church. The program consists of five different stages:

• PRE-CATECHUMENATE: A period of inquiry about the Catholic faith.
• CATECHUMENATE: A period of study of the faith/creed.
• ILLUMINATION PERIOD: Spiritual and scriptural preparation stage.
• BAPTISM AND RECEPTION: At the Easter Vigil.
• MYSTAGOGIA: A time of continued study.

Information on the Catechumenate Program (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) is available by calling the parish office. (732) 270-3980

Sacraments of Healing

• First Penance:

Children of the parish who are students of our religious education program, celebrate their First Confession during the second grade. The religious education office prepares the children and their parents for this Sacrament.  More information can viewed on the religious education section of the website or call the St. Justin's School of religion at (732) 270-3797.

• Reconciliation:

The Sacrament of Reconciliation/Penance is celebrated in the Church every Saturday from 3:30pm-4:00pm.

The Reconciliation rooms may be used for either face-to-face or behind-the-screen confessions.

Several times during the year, the parish will celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation communally. These opportunities will be announced in the weekly bulletin. They are usually held during the seasons of Advent and Lent.

• Pastoral Care Of The Sick:

The Sacrament of the Sick is intended to spiritually and physically strengthen those who are sick. Advanced age or any serious illness is sufficient reason for administering this Sacrament. If you are in doubt about the appropriateness of receiving this Sacrament, please call the rectory at (732) 270-3980 and explain your circumstances.

Sacraments of Vocation

• Matrimony or Marriage:

A preparation period of one year is required by the Bishop.  It is then suggested that you contact a Priest or Deacon at the parish office no later than one year before your marriage date.  Please set your date with the Church first before making any social plans, as dates and times are limited by other marriages and by other parish activities.  For more information please call the parish office at (732) 270-3980.

• Holy Orders

The sacrament of Holy Orders (Deacon, Priest, Bishop) is administered to men who have attended a period of formation at a seminary or institute of formation for Permanent Deacons.  If you are interested in becoming a Priest or Deacon please contact the following offices for more information on application and formation.