Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is the “doorway” to the Christian faith. Baptism usually takes place shortly after the birth of a child and begins his or her lifelong journey of Christianity. Baptisms are typically celebrated at St. Kevin on the first Sunday of the month at 1:00 PM or at a time that is convenient for the family. At least one godparent needs to be a practicing Catholic, able to obtain a “sponsor certificate” from his/her parish priest. The other godparent, if not Catholic, must be Christian and will be considered a Christian witness. The baptism is recorded in the St. Kevin parish record and a certificate is presented to the family on the day of the baptism. Contact our parish office at (401) 737-2638 to register for the required preparation class offered by Deacon Fulton and to schedule a date for the baptism.
Reconciliation
This is a sacrament of forgiveness. The power of the forgiveness of sins was given to the apostles and their successors by the Savior himself who said, “Whose sins you forgive are forgiven, and those you hold bound are held bound.” (John 20:23). Confessions are heard on the first Saturday of each month at St. Kevin Church from 3:15 to 3:45 p.m., and by appointment. Please call the parish office at (401) 737-2638 to schedule an appointment. For children, the sacrament is celebrated for the first time in the second grade during the Lenten season.
Eucharist
The celebration of the Eucharist is the “summit and source of life” for the Catholic Church. The bread and wine is transformed into the real presence of the Body and Blood of Christ by a bishop or priest with the words of consecration. Only Catholics in good standing can receive the Eucharist at Mass. First Communion at St. Kevin is celebrated in the spring of a child’s second grade year.
Confirmation
This sacrament reflects the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles on Pentecost and imparts the same Holy Spirit to the confirmandii. The gift of the Holy Spirit, sent to the Church 50 days after the resurrection of the Lord and 10 days after His ascension into heaven, is often depicted as tongues of fire above the apostles’ heads as on that first Pentecost. The Sacrament of Confirmation is usually conferred by a bishop, but with permission from a bishop can be conferred by a priest at the Easter Vigil or on other occasions. Confirmation ratifies the promises first made at baptism, but that are now spoken by the candidate him/herself. The sacrament is celebrated at St. Kevin for 9th grade students after they complete a one-year program of preparation. A sponsor, a Catholic in good standing who can obtain a “sponsor certificate” from his/her parish priest, is required and is chosen by each candidate. Candidates also choose a saint’s name as their confirmation name.
Matrimony
The Sacrament of Marriage is the only sacrament when the minister is not a bishop, priest, or deacon. The ministers of this sacrament are the man and woman whose consent and spoken vows bring the sacrament to life. The bishop, priest, or deacon is the official church witness. Two other witnesses are also required. Couples should contact Fr. Marciano at least one year prior to their wedding date, and no venue should be planned without securing the church date/time and permission. Pre-Cana classes are required by the Diocese of Providence. St. Kevin Parish hosts two classes per year however, couples may attend any classes sponsored by the diocese. A listing of all classes is available in our parish office. A civil license is required from any town or city hall and must be brought to the wedding rehearsal. This license will then be filed by the celebrant of the marriage with the issuing city or town. A copy of the license can be obtained after the wedding from the town or city hall.
Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the conferral of sacred orders to a man ordained by a bishop as a deacon, priest, or bishop. Sponsored by a bishop and after completing seminary studies, the candidate is ordained. For more information, please call the parish office to speak to Father Marciano or the Diocesan Vocation Office at (401) 331-1316.
Anointing of the Sick
This is a sacrament of healing and is offered to those who are gravely ill, preparing to undergo surgery, or dying. It is administered by a bishop or priest. Formerly known–and still often referred to–as the “Last Rites,” this sacrament is a great comfort to those who are suffering, their families and loved ones, and it helps to ease the spiritual and physical suffering of the person. A priest is on call at every hospital and nursing home in the state (assigned by geographic location), but Fr. Marciano is always available to anoint and visit the sick. Please call the parish office at (401) 737-2638 to request a home or hospital visit.