Liturgy

Liturgy and sacraments are part of the formal, public prayer and worship of the Church. The Church encourages full, conscious and active participation in liturgy. Schools celebrate the Liturgy of the Church through celebration of the sacraments, Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Hours. 

Liturgy
The original meaning of the word “liturgy” was a public work or service on behalf of the people. In Christian understanding the word liturgy refers to the participation of the people of God in “the work of God” (John 17:4). The New Testament understanding of “liturgy” includes celebration of divine worship, the proclamation of the gospel and acts of charity (Catechism of the Catholic Church, nn.1069- 1070). Therefore, a school community’s celebration of liturgy both reflects and influences what it proclaims, who it is and what it does.

Sacraments
Sacraments are signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church through which the life of God is bestowed. There are seven sacraments in the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify, to build up the Body of Christ and to give worship to God. Sacraments are signs and they also instruct. Sacraments pre-suppose faith and nourish and express faith (Code of Canon Law, 1983, 1123-1131).

Children not attending a Catholic school can contact the Parish office for preparation courses to receive the Sacraments of  Reconciliation, Eucharist and Confirmation. Application forms are founder under the Sacraments submenu.