Dear Parents,

The celebration of the sacraments is one of the most essential activities in our lives as Catholics. Each year our parish rejoices as we welcome children into more active involvement in the life of our community through participation in the sacraments.

The Canon Law of the Church and the regulations of the Archdiocese of Baltimore state that as children reach the age of discretion (about age 7 for most children), they are to be invited to prepare for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. Children are also to be enrolled in an approved faith formation program in a parish or Catholic school at least one year before beginning preparation for sacraments.

The Law of the Church and Archdiocesan regulations also specify that children should normally receive the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to receiving the Eucharist. Because of your role as the first and foremost religious educator of your own child, you, as a parent, have the responsibility to make an informed decision about the readiness of your child to receive the sacraments. Our Faith Formation Department wishes to support you as parents, in successfully carrying out the responsibility of preparing your children for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.

Registered parishioners who believe their child is eligible to begin sacramental preparation are encouraged to call (410) 531-6688 for more specific information.

This is an exciting time for you and your family. If I may be of assistance to you in any way, please feel free to call me at (410) 531-6688 or e-mail vyozwiak@stlouisparish.org

May the Lord bless all of us in our shared responsibility.

Victoria Yozwiak
Director of Faith Formation