Sacraments

The Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are ceremonies that point to what is sacred, significant and important for Christians. They are special occasions for experiencing God’s saving presence and are at the same time signs and instruments of God’s grace.

Sacrament of Baptism

For Catholics, the Sacrament of Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Whether we are baptized as infants or adults, Baptism is the Church’s way of celebrating and enacting the embrace of God.

To learn more about Requesting this Sacrament, contact Steve Lindner x702.

Sacrament of the Eucharist

Catholics believe the Eucharist, or Communion, is both a sacrifice and a meal. We believe in the real presence of Jesus, who died for our sins. As we receive Christ’s Body and Blood, we also are nourished spiritually and brought closer to God.

For information about Registration for the Sacrament contact Nancy Dallas weekdays x761.

Sacrament of Reconciliation

The Catholic Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as the Sacrament of Penance, or Penance and Reconciliation) has three elements: conversion, confession and celebration. In it we find God's unconditional forgiveness, and as a result we are called to forgive others.

The Sacrament is held in the Ante Room on Tuesday evenings from 5:30 – 6:15 p.m., or by appointment. For information about Registration for First Reconciliation contact Nancy Dallas x761.

Sacrament of Confirmation

Confirmation is a Catholic sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. Like Baptism and Eucharist, it is a Sacrament of Initiation for Catholics and a Sacrament of faith in God’s fidelity to us.

For information about Confirmation Preparation classes contact Jeffrey Davis x724.

Sacrament of Marriage

For Catholics, the Sacrament of Marriage, or Holy Matrimony, is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to this other person. It is also a public statement about God: the loving union of husband and wife speaks of family values and also God’s values.

For more information about preparing for or scheduling a wedding at Good Shepherd, visit Pastoral Services. To see our wedding and reception areas, visit Facilities.

Sacrament of Holy Orders

In the Sacrament of Holy Orders, or Ordination, the priest being ordained vows to lead other Catholics by bringing them the sacraments (especially the Eucharist), by proclaiming the Gospel, and by providing other means to holiness.

For help to discern a possible call to the priesthood or religious life, please contact Fr. Schmitz or the Diocesan Vocations Director, Rev. Kyle Schnippel at (513) 421-3131.

Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick

The Catholic sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, formerly known as Last Rites or Extreme Unction, is a ritual of healing appropriate not only for physical but also for mental and spiritual sickness.

We celebrate this Sacrament communally at the Wednesday 6:15 p.m. Mass. If you have a serious illness, are scheduled for surgery or hospitalization and would like to receive this Sacrament, call the parish office 489-8815.  For emergencies, call the parish office and follow the instructions.