The Church teaches that while “Baptism does snatch us from the power of sin and death, and brings us into the new life of the children of God, it does not free us from human weakness and the inclination to sin. That is why we need a place to be reconciled with God again and again. That place is the sacrament of Reconciliation also known as Penance or Confession (YouCat 226, CCC. 1425-26.)
Holy Eucharist is the sacrament in which Jesus Christ gives His Body and Blood (His very own self) for us so that we might give ourselves to him in love and be united with Him in Holy Communion. In this way we are joined with the one Body of Christ, the Church (CCC. 1322, 1324, 1409, 1413)
Children seven years of age or older may prepare for and celebrate the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. For us at the Basilica, this preparation, guided by our archdiocesan Standards for Preparing Children and Youth for the Sacraments, supports the role of the family, offers parent/child gatherings and a retreat. Children are invited to take part in the Children’s Liturgy of the Word at the 12:30 Mass on Sunday. For those young people who do not attend a Catholic school the parish will supply supplementary materials.
For more information, or to register, please contact the parish office at 780.488.7295 or email basilica.info@caedm.ca.