Baptism is the gateway to life in the Spirit. It is the means through which we gain access to the other sacraments. Through baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God. By baptism we become members of Christ and his church.

Parents are required to follow the requirements for godparents and/or sponsors as mandated by the Code of Canon Law and the policy of the Diocese of Greensburg. Furthermore, the partner parishes of Connellsville have official guidelines for baptism sponsors, as well as the appropriate number of godparents required.

In the event that neither the candidate, nor the parents or guardians select a sponsor, pastors may appoint a member of the parish community to fill the role of sponsor. Many parents are often concerned that they cannot find a suitable godparent for a variety of reasons (i.e., unavailability of family members, being new to the area or unfamiliar with parishioners, etc.). In such cases, pastors have the responsibility of assisting parents and candidates in the selection of a parishioner to serve as a godparent.

Sr. Donna arranges infant (under 7 years old) baptisms in our partner parishes. Mary Allison arranges Christian Initiation for Children, Teens, and Adults.

Confirmation of Youth

Confirmation of Adults

Qualifications of Confirmation Sponsors

1. Be designated by the candidate, by the parents or guardians, or the pastor.
2. Have the qualifications and intention of performing the role of sponsor.
3. Be at least 16 years old.
4. Be a fully initiated Catholic (received baptism, confirmation and Eucharist).
5. Lead a life in harmony with the faith and role of a sponsor (i.e., be a member of a parish, attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, not be in an irregular marriage, etc.).
6. Not be bound by a canonical penalty.
7. Not be the father or mother of the one to be confirmed.
8. If married, be married in the Church. If single, live as the Church teaches.

1. There is normally one sponsor for the sacrament of confirmation.
2. It is recommended that a baptismal godparent exercise the role of confirmation sponsor.
3. It is discouraged that a spouse serve as confirmation sponsor.

At the heart of all parish life is the celebration of the Eucharist. It is the source and the summit of our faith. When Catholics receive the holy Eucharist (holy Communion) we believe that we are receiving the body and blood of Christ, our risen Lord and savior. Catholics treat the holy Eucharist with great respect.  

Catholics are encouraged to receive holy Communion often, in that it strengthens individuals spiritually as food does for the physical body. Normally a Catholic should be free from serious sin and observe an hour fast before partaking in the sacrament. As the Eucharist is seen as a strong sign of unity centered in a common profession of faith and belief, those individuals who are not Catholic should refrain from receiving the Eucharist when attending services.  

Both Catholics and non-Catholics are encouraged to pray for the unity of all Christian churches. When entering a Catholic Church, Catholics will make a genuflection in the direction of the tabernacle, because the holy Eucharist is held in reserve there to be given to the sick and dying when necessary. 

Typically, the atmosphere of a Catholic Church is a quiet one, again out of reverence for the blessed sacrament and those who come to pray. For more information on the holy Eucharist, call the parish office or visit the Diocesan Website. 

The normative age for the reception of First Communion is 7 years old. Children should attend 2 years of formal religious education, as well as sacramental preparation.

Adults seeking their First Communion should do so through the RCIA process.

Mary Allison arranges sacramental preparation for the Eucharist.

The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated with those experiencing serious illness, chronic disabilities, those undergoing general anesthesia, and advancement in age. As the name of the Sacrament indicates, it is for those who are ill. One need not wait till there is a danger of death before an individual requests the anointing. The sacrament of the anointing of the sick is available to members of our partner parishes at any time upon request.  

In the event of emergency, please contact the parish office and follow the instructions given. Those admitted to local hospitals may also contact the hospital chaplain in the event of an emergency or prior to surgery. 

[Jesus] went up the mountain and summoned those whom he wanted and they came to him.  He appointed twelve [whom he also named apostles] that they might be with him and he might send them forth to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. - Mark 3:13-15

Vocations Resources

​The Office of Priestly Vocations for our Diocese.

Director: Fr. Tyler Bandura
​Phone: 724-552-2535​
​Email: [email protected]

Vocations Website

Is God Calling Me to Priesthood?