Sacramental Preparation

Welcome to St. Mary Cathedral Sacramental Preparation Program! 

As you may know, our Diocese prepares young Catholics to receive the Sacraments of Christian Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist) according to the Restored Order. This means that Confirmation is “restored” to its place before First Communion. Preparation for these Sacraments, as well as for Reconciliation, takes place following the age of reason, which varies, but usually around 7 years of age.

Recognizing that all children learn at different speeds and in different ways, we use a “Readiness Model.” Parents and children bond with each other and with Jesus while becoming proficient with Catholic themes and prayers. They gain greater mastery as they progress. The 3 levels attached below will guide and engage families in a fun and dynamic way. Families will also have the joy of personally getting acquainted with the priests as they meet with them to assess the child's progress.

Please register your child with the parish office and schedule an appointment with one of the priests. This initial meeting is to meet one of the priests and be presented with the program. We try to encourage the presence of Godparents in the faith life of your child - their role, based on promises they made at the time of your child's baptism, is one of encouragement and help in your child's faith journey, as well as assisting in the assessment of the child’s readiness.

You may register your child at any time. As a general guideline, level one can be done during first grade, level two during second grade and level three during third grade. Traditionally, the children receive the sacraments from Bishop during Holy Mass at Pentecost. Children should complete level three at least 3 weeks beforehand so we can submit their names to the Diocese.

With joy and gratitude for our Catholic Faith, I look forward to growing closer to Jesus with you. Sincerely yours in Jesus and Mary,

Fr. Matthew Wigton, Rector

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE SACRAMENTAL PREP PROGRAM!

You can fill out the above form and e-mail back to parishoffice@stmarycathedral.org or mail to 606 N Ohio Ave. Gaylord, MI 49735.
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Level 1 Sacramental Preparation Packet

Level 2 Sacramental Preparation Packet

Level 3 Sacramental Preparation Packet

Two Sacramental Preparation Retreats are required for all children before receiving the Sacraments (one per year). The 2026 Retreat dates are Saturday, January 10th or Saturday, February 7th. The Retreats begin with 8:00 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral. Please call the Parish Office at 989-732-5448 or email  parishoffice@stmarycathedral.org to reserve your date.