Parents are to “be recognized as being primarily and principally responsible for their [faith] education…it is almost impossible to provide an adequate substitute.” (GE #3) Therefore, it is through and with the family that we promote an understanding of and preparation for the sacraments. The parish community in partnership with the parents prepares for sacraments.
- Excerpted from Sacraments for Young Children Archdiocese of Cincinnati
The Purpose:
The purpose of sacramental preparation at St. Max, first and foremost is to encourage you, the parents, in your faith, and support you in the preparation of your child for the reception of First Penance and First Communion.
The Objectives:
To instruct and inspire those in preparation with the truth about these beautiful sacraments that they will acquire a practical and lasting knowledge of them in form and matter.
To understand these sacraments in the context of the infinite love and mercy of God and their own personal relationship with him.
To inspire those in preparation to truly love and desire these sacraments understanding the absolute necessity of the grace they give for our lives.
Step 1: Parent Information Meeting
Join our Sacramental Preparation staff for one of these required meetings. You’ll get an overview of the sacramental preparation process at St. Max, learn how to get signed up for formation programs , and have an opportunity to ask questions of our ministry staff.
Sign up for informational meetings for 2024 - 2025 preparation here. The meeting dates will be:
Wednesday, May 1 06:30 pm - 08:00 pm
Saturday, May 4 09:30 am - 11:00 am
Sunday, May 5 12:30 pm - 02:00 pm
Tuesday, May 14 06:30 pm - 08:00 pm
Step 2: Registration
Materials to register and calendars with deadlines/meeting date will be given out at the informational meeting.
Step 3: Preparation and Celebration of the Sacraments
There are 3 preparation sessions for each of the two sacraments which include a retreat. A parent (or special adult) must attend each session. Attendance at all sessions is required to complete preparation.
Celebration of the sacraments can take place after the corresponding preparation has been completed.
The policy of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati is that children in the 2nd grade, about age 7, be prepared for and celebrate the sacraments in the same year. The policy also stipulates that children are prepared by their parish of membership.
If your child has not received First Communion and is in 3rd grade or older, please contact Robin Burbrink, 513-777-4322 ext. 124, Rburbrink@saint-max.org for information on preparation.