Children's Sacramental Preparation

Our Sacramental Preparation program of formation assists Cathedral families in the preparation of their children to receive the Sacraments of Penance, Confirmation, and First Holy Communion.

The Diocese of Spokane instituted the 'restored order' of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation in 1998. This means that in continuity with the ancient tradition of the Church, the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Holy Communion are conferred at the same Mass. The Sacrament of Penance is received prior to Confirmation and First Holy Communion.

Families discern their child's readiness to receive the Sacraments with support and counsel from the Cathedral's clergy and staff. Children may begin Sacramental Preparation in first grade, but most begin in second grade. Some families choose to have their child celebrate the Sacrament of Penance the year before receiving Confirmation and First Holy Communion, others discern preparation for all three Sacraments in the course of a year. Each approach can be very fruitful, and each child is unique.

This program of formation is also designed for the needs of families who have children older than second grade who have not received Confirmation. This is usually the case for families who have moved to the Diocese of Spokane from other areas.

Please note that if your child is a second grade student at a Catholic school, it is likely that catechesis for the Sacraments will occur in class. In this case, please still register your child for Sacramental Preparation at the Cathedral, and Sr. Paschalina Marie will contact you with more information.

Parents are the first and primary educators of their children within the environment of the Domestic Church. It is essential that parents model the sacramental life (weekly Sunday Mass attendance and the regular reception of the Sacrament of Penance) and the life of virtue they wish to see cultivated in their children.

*Please note that families will be asked to consider a statement of family readiness when completing the Sacramental Prep registration form.* 

 Registration for Sacramental Preparation is now closed.