The Sacraments

In the event of a Sacramental emergency, please contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676 or (636) 544-0720 if it is outside of office hours. 

Baptism

Baptism

Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God. We become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.”

Adults – The Sacrament of Baptism is offered and encouraged for anyone wishing to enter into a new life of faith according to the Catholic tradition. Adults should make an appointment with the parish priest to set up a program of adult initiation. This typically may take up to one year to complete.

Infants – Active parishioners are encouraged to bring their children for baptism. Parents and Godparents are asked to attend a baptismal preparation session prior to the baptism. This preparation session provides a spiritual recourse to inform and educate parents and godparents in the baptismal ceremony and the profound Grace of this Sacrament. These sessions are held by appointment only.

Whether you are interested in baptism as an adult or for a newborn, please contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676 for details.

Church

Reconciliation

The Sacrament of Penance (and Reconciliation) was instituted by Jesus, who forgave the sins of the paralytic and willed that his Church continue, in the power of the Holy Spirit, His work of healing and salvation. Jesus has willed that the life and actions of His Church be a sign and instrument of forgiveness, reconciliation and conversion.

Friday | 7:30 am – 7:50 am
Saturday | 3:30 pm – 4:15 pm

Communal penance services are announced during Advent and Lent – please consult the calendar. Parishioners may also call the parish office at (636) 332-6676 to arrange for personal spiritual direction. First Penance for children of catechetical age may be discussed by contacting the parish office at (636) 332-6676.Reconciliation is normally offered on this schedule:

Communion

Holy Communion

The Sacrament of the Eucharist lies at the very heart of the Church’s life and mission; it contains the sacrificial memorial of Christ and his Body. Each time the Eucharist is celebrated, the Church is fully present, fully alive. The community of St. Joseph Parish defines its’ very life and mission from our Eucharistic worship. Adoration before the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist takes place every Tuesday beginning with exposition at 8:30 am. and concluding with Benediction at 6:55 pm.

Second grade students prepare to receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist in the spring of each year. Adult catechumens prepare for their first Eucharist in the process of Adult Initiation. Their first reception is celebrated when they are baptized or received into full communion. Please contact the parish office for details regarding initiation into The Church.

Confirmation

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation  (or Chrismation) is a rite confirming an individual’s Baptism. This Sacrament strengthens a Christian and helps him enter into a more intimate union with Christ. It is a Sacrament which opens one to the powerful gifts of the Holy Spirit as we strive to lead a Christian life and bring others to the knowledge and love of God.

Confirmation for 7th and 8th grade classes is administered each even year. Parents of parish children not enrolled in St. Joseph School should contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676 for information.

Wedding

Holy Matrimony

Holy Scripture affirms that man and woman were created for one another. The Pastoral Staff of St. Joseph Parish extends congratulations and a cordial welcome to you who are planning to consecrate your love for one another in the Sacrament of Matrimony.

There are many considerations to be made in preparation for your wedding ceremony. Please review the Preparing for Marriage document which detail the expectations involved in allowing St. Joseph Parish to host your wedding celebration. For further information and to schedule your wedding, please contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676.

Church

Anointing of the Sick

The anointing of the sick (with oil) and prayers for healing is celebrated with those who are ill, preparing for surgery, or frail and elderly. At any time a Catholic may request this Sacrament. With a days notice, the Sacrament can be made available. Our Pastor regularly visits the convalescent homes in the area and offers the Sacrament. He will also make individual visits to the sick to confer this Sacrament.

If you or someone you know is in need of this Sacrament, please contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676 to make arrangements.

Fr. Tony Ritter

Holy Orders

The Sacrament of Holy Orders imparts a special indelible character, a mark that God can see, on the human soul. Like the Holy Eucharist itself, the character of Holy Orders utterly transforms a man interiorly while leaving his outer appearance unchanged. That character remains on his soul for all eternity, identifying him as one of God’s ordained servants.

If you are a young man interested in answering the call of the Sacrament of Holy Orders or a young woman called to do God’s work, please contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676.

Funeral Planning

Funeral Planning

The Catholic Rites are comprised of three separate and vital parts: The Vigil, Funeral Mass and the Committal . Through these sacred and solemn Catholic Rites, the family and friends of the deceased are reminded of the companionship and support of Christ and all believers.

If planning a funeral please utilize the planning guide and contact the parish office at (636) 332-6676.