A Roman Catholic presence in the Shenandoah Valley since 1932

We Celebrate the Sacraments

sacraments

The life of the Christian Community is further enhanced at particular sacred events in the lives of her members. Explore how we assist in preparing people for the celebration of the church's sacraments.


baptism

Baptism (infants and children age 6 and younger)

The growth of our parish family in particular and the universal church at large takes place in one of two ways, when we welcome new members through the waters of baptism, or when baptized members of other Christian communities come into full communion with the Catholic Church. Most Catholics are incorporated into the people of God with the celebration of Baptism when they are infants. But it falls to the parents and godparents of children to seek baptism for them, and to raise them in the practice of the Catholic faith.

Baptism preparation take place every other month. Only after attending preparation are parents permitted to schedule the Celebration of Baptism. Baptism is typically celebrated within Sunday mass, except during Advent and Lent. For special circumstances, consult with the Pastor.

Please call the Parish Office at (540) 949-6145 to register to attend. For baptisms of children past age 6, please contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.


confirmation

Confirmation

We celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation throughout the Diocese of Richmond in the 10th Grade. Preparation for the reception of the sacrament takes place during the academic year, and the sacrament is celebrated with the Bishop or his delegate during the Easter Season. Contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.

Young adults who did not receive the Sacrament of Confirmation by the 10th Grade may prepare to receive the sacrament at any time, contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.


first communion

First Eucharist (parents and children)

We typically celebrate First Holy Communion with young people in the 2nd Grade. Preparation for the reception of the sacrament takes place during the academic year, and the sacrament is celebrated on a designated Sunday in the Easter Season. Contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.

Catholics past the 2nd Grade who wish to receive First Holy Communion should contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.


reconciliation

First Reconciliation (parents and children)

We typically celebrate First Reconciliation (Confession) with young people also in the 2nd Grade. Preparation for the reception of the sacrament takes place during the academic year, and the sacrament is celebrated on a designated Saturday in the Advent Season. Contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.

Catholics past the 2nd Grade who wish to receive First Reconciliation should contact Coordinator of Christian Formation.


marriage

Marriage

The Pastor is primarily responsible for preparing engaged couples for the Celebration of Marriage as required by the Bishop of the Diocese of Richmond. With the help of several married couple parishioners trained by the Office of Marriage, Family, & Life, the Pastor meets with the couple to begin sacramental preparation at least 6 months prior to the celebration of the sacrament.

Engaged couples who wish to celebrate their wedding at St. John but are not members of St. John should meet with their Pastor to begin sacramental preparation as required by the Bishop of their diocese. Only after the engaged couple's Pastor has contacted the Pastor at St. John will we be able to reserve your date on our parish calendar.

Contact the Pastor.


anointing of the sick

Anointing of the Sick, Viaticum, & Pastoral Care

A priest alone may administer the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. It is given to a person who is ill, preparing for surgery, recovering from surgery, in hospice care, or in any extreme form of physical distress. Contact the parish office as soon as possible while your sick loved one is alert and able to communicate. The sacrament of Anointing can be given more than once, but only to the living.

A person receives Viaticum who is still alert and able to take communion. What we formerly identified as Last Rites is actually the Anointing of the Sick, and it is only "last" when it cannot be administered again. But the last sacrament administered to the dying is Viaticum, that is communion, which is literally "food for the journey." As such, the dying person needs to still be able to take communion. A person who is no longer alert or able to take communion may still be given the Anointing of the Sick.

It is best to bring your sick loved one to the attention of the Pastor and the Pastoral Care Team who visits those who are sick. Our Parish Nurses are able to help family members navigate the healthcare system, and provide resources available through the county or state.

Contact: Call the Parish Office