MINISTRIES

MINISTRY TO THE SICK The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick: Oil was used to treat wounds and ailments in ancient times and continues to have real curative power, thus it is a strong symbol of Christ's healing presence. Following the Second Vatican Council, the Church extended the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick beyond those in danger of death to all who need spiritual and physical health. Eligibility: Any baptized person who requires a doctor's care for an ailment, disability or injury as well as persons about to undergo an operation or major medical procedure are eligible to receive the Anointing of the Sick. In addition people advanced in years are encouraged to receive the sacrament regularly.
Schedule:

• Parish celebrations: Any baptized person who requires a doctor's care for an ailment, disability or injury as well as persons about to undergo an operation or major medical procedure are eligible to receive the Anointing of the Sick. In addition people advanced in years are encouraged to receive the sacrament regularly.
• Following Sunday Liturgy: If you are scheduled for surgery or a procedure on weeks other than fifth Sundays, ask a priest to anoint you following mass.
• Personal visits: We try to minister the sacrament to the homebound and those in nursing care approximately every six months. Contact the rectory for more information.

Eucharist for the Homebound: From earliest times in the Church, Eucharist has been ministered to those unable to celebrate with the larger community. Saint Lawrence O'Toole–Saint Cyril's ministry to the homebound coordinates and trains volunteers to minister communion to those unable to worship with us on Sunday. Contact the rectory if you or a loved one would like to receive the Eucharist at home or in nursing care.
BECOMING A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN Before he ascended to heaven, Jesus commanded the apostles to "go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe what I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:19)."
The decision to follow Christ is a life commitment that requires discernment and guidance. The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is for those considering Baptism or full reception into the Catholic Church. RCIA follows a process of prayer, counseling and teaching used by the ancient Church and revived by the Second Vatican Council. Saint Lawrence–Saint Cyril parish participates in this process together with other parishes in our deanery.
The RCIA consists of four stages:

• Inquiry is a period when an individual investigates becoming a member of the Church. Basic Christian teachings are presented and questions answered. There is no obligation to go beyond this stage. Inquiry usually begins in September.
• Catechumenate: Those who wish to continue the journey to initiation are received into the program through the Rite of Acceptance. In late autumn Catechumens commit to pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their decision to become full members of the Church. A sponsor accompanies them on their spiritual journey.
• Election: During Lent Catechumens who wish to be baptized at Easter commend themselves before the bishop to an intense period of spiritual reflection.
• Baptism and mystagogia: The elect receive the sacraments of initiation—Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation—at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday. During the Easter Season they continue their reflection on the meaning of the rituals of the Church and Catholic practice.

Reception into Full Communion with the Catholic Church: The Catholic Church recognizes the baptism of Orthodox and most Protestant denominations. Christians who want to become Catholic follow a parallel process with those in the RCIA and meet with those who are to be baptized.
Eligibility: Those wishing to participate in this process must be at least 19 years old or have finished High School.

Classes meet weekly on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.