Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.
Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission. Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.
Baptism is celebrated each month on the first and third Saturday at 1:00 pm in the Church. Parents are required to attend a pre-baptismal instruction class given each month on the fourth Monday of the month at 7:30 pm in the Church. Families must register for Baptism with one of the priests or deacon at the rectory in advance of the class.
Reconciliation (Confession)
Confession is the telling of our sins to an authorized priest for the purpose of obtaining forgiveness and absolution of our sins. This is a sacrament and should not be confused with the Penitential Rite at Mass. Confessions are heard:
Saturdays: 12 noon – 1:00 pm
First Holy Communion
The Blessed Sacrament can be received by all baptized Catholics who are free from serious sin during the celebration of the Mass. Arrangement may also be made to those who are ill or homebound. For children who have yet to receive Holy Communion and have reached the age of reason (approximately 7 years of age or 2nd Grade), arrangements should be made through St. Anselm Catholic School or St. Anselm’s Office of Faith Formation. Please contact Mrs. Roseanne Bourke at (718) 500-7082 for more information.
Confirmation
Children in primary or secondary public schools should contact Mrs. Roseanne Bourke at (718) 500-7082. to register for religious instruction for the sacrament of Confirmation.
Adults who need the sacrament of Confirmation should contact a priest or deacon of the parish to make an appointment.
Matrimony
Please make arrangements with one of the priests or deacon at least six (6) months in advance so that the proper period of formation may be observed and all the details may be taken care of properly. Also, a couple is required to take a pre-nuptial retreat, which is “Pre-Cana“. For more information, you can visit the diocesan website, www.pre-cana.org. If you want to know more of the spirituality of Matrimony, you may visit the website of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
Holy Orders
The privilege of serving God’s people as a priest, permanent deacon, religious sister or brother is personally fulfilling and spiritually exciting. Anyone who feels they might be interested in the priesthood, diaconate or religious life should speak to a parish priest. You may also contact the Vocation Office of the Diocese of Brooklyn.
Anointing of the Sick
Anointing is encouraged for those who are ill, having surgery, homebound or for those advanced in age. Arrangements should be made with one of the priests. It is important not to wait for immediate danger of death. In case of a medical emergency, call (718) 238-2900 any time.