Sacraments

Baptism

“Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other Sacraments”
(Catechism of the Catholic Church #1213).

Infant Baptism
Preparation for the baptism of infants can begin during pregnancy. Preparation classes are given as needed. We ask that parents attend one preparation session, which focuses on the theology of Baptism & the signs and symbols of the sacrament.
Contact Rose Cullen at (202)-362-3323 ext 10 or download forms

Baptism of Adults and older children are accomplished through participation in the Rite of Christian Initiation ( RCIA) process

Eucharist

Eucharist for children is celebrated in the second grade at the completion of two years of preparation.  Receiving the Eucharist is the center of our faith and is the second of our three sacraments of initiation.  For children not attending a Catholic school, preparation takes place during their religious education classes, so all students not attending a Catholic school should be attending such classes beginning with first grade.

For adults who are either already Catholic but have never yet received this sacrament, or adults who would like to become Catholic, please see RCIA process.

For more information, contact Patrice Morace at (202)-362-3323 ext 13 or morace@annunciationdc.org.

Reconciliation

The celebration of reconciliation (also known as confession or penance) is a sacramental celebration of renewal of our relationship with God and with one another. Preparation for this sacrament for children, (as with Eucharist above) is completed over a two year period and contact information is the same as for Eucharist.

Confessions in the parish are heard every Saturday from 4:15 to 5:15pm in the church, by appointment with a priest, or at one of the bi-annual Penance Services, scheduled during Lent and Advent.

Confirmation

The sacrament of Confirmation is the third of the three sacraments of initiation into the Catholic Church.  Students preparing for this sacrament receive it in the spring of 8th grade, following two years of preparation.  For children not attending a Catholic school, preparation takes place during their religious education classes, so all students not attending a Catholic school should be attending such classes beginning with first grade.

Adults who are either already Catholic but have never yet received this sacrament, or adults who would like to become Catholic, refer to the RCIA process.

For more information, contact Patrice Morace, Director of Religious Formation (202-362-3323) ext 13 morace@annunciationdc.org.

Matrimony

Arrangements must be made through the parish office at least six months in advance of the desired date of the wedding. A Pre-Cana course is required, as well as several preparation meetings with a priest. For more information, contact the Parish office (202-362-3323). This contact should be made before any other arrangements are made regarding the wedding date.

Anointing of the Sick

The Anointing of the Sick (formerly known as last rites or extreme unction) is a sacrament dedicated to the healing of body, mind and/or spirit and is available to anyone feeling in need of this type of healing. From someone who is elderly or infirm, facing surgery or suffering from a life-threatening illness, to those in mental or spiritual distress, this sacrament provides a soothing and powerful reminder of God’s grace and presence in our lives. Anyone wishing to be anointed may be in touch with the parish office.

In addition, see our web page on our healing ministry.

Visiting the Sick or Homebound

Please don’t hesitate to call us if you would like a priest to visit either you or someone who is ill.

Mass of Christian Burial

While our faith assures us of our place in heaven with God our Father, that does not mean that there is no grieving when a loved one dies. This is often a traumatic time in the lives of those who are left, especially in the planning of the funeral, which usually needs to be handled in a short amount of time. It’s always best to contact a priest first before planning the funeral preparation. Helping you to make the funeral Mass for your loved one as personal as possible is our goal as we assist you in choosing scripture readings and music for the occasion. Whether you are doing advance planning or the need arises at the death of a loved one, please be in touch with Msgr. Lockman and we will help you through this process.