Sacraments

Baptism
Infants and young children of registered and participating parents may be baptized at St. Gabriel's. Parents must be registered at St. Gabriel's for six months prior to the baptism. Parents are then scheduled for a baptism class. Community celebrations of Baptism normally occur once a month.

According to the Rite of Initiation of Adults (RCIA) adults seeking baptism will take part in a process involving faith sharing, prayer study and celebration with members of the parish. Reception into the Church usually takes place at the Easter Vigil.

For more details, contact the Parish Office at (858) 748-5348.

First Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is first received during the second year preparation for First Holy Communion. Since parents participate in their child's preparation, they are provided with two sessions on the sacrament for their own personal development and updating. Preparation for children in the third grade and older may be arranged with the Religious Education office. Contact the Office of Religious Education at (858)748-7475.

Adults prepare for first reception of Reconciliation as a part of the RCIA program

First Holy Communion (Holy Eucharist)
Children usually prepare to receive First Communion during the second grade. Two years of preparation is required of all students.Both parents and catechists participate in the preparation and attend Mass every weekend. In the second year, there are two required sessions for parents that are presented, usually during the month of February. Preparation for children in the third grade and older may be arranged with the Religious Education Office.

Adults prepare for first reception of the Eucharist as a part of the RCIA program.

Confirmation
Young people may choose to receive Confirmation after a two-year process of education, reflection, service, retreat participation and sacramental celebration. Candidates for Confirmation must have been in continuing Religious Education and participate in sessions and activities outlined in the program. Parents and sponsors of candidates are required to attend sacramental preparation sessions. Young people are encouraged to inquire upon promotion from eighth grade about specific guidelines for Confirmation. Contact Coordinator of Youth Ministries - Eddie Nunn at (858) 748-7475 x202.

Adults receive Confirmation as a part of the RCIA program.

Go to St. Gabriel's Youth Group Website

Marriage
Contact Fr. Michael at (858)748-5348. (Advance notice and Diocesan preparation class required.)

Annointing of the Sick
Anyone wishing to receive the Sacrament for the Anointing of the Sick should contact the Parish Office at (858) 748-5348. The sacrament of the Anointing is also given the last Friday of each month after the 12:10 pm Mass.

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is primarily a conversion process. It addresses itself to the following groups interested in the Catholic faith.

The un-baptized wishing to inquire and explore what it means to be Catholic.
Those baptized in other faiths who wish to become Catholic or who simply learn more about the Catholic faith.
Baptized Catholics who wish to be received into full communion with the Catholic Church through the Eucharist and Confirmation.

The RCIA program at St. Gabriel's Church is held year round. Participants begin with an inquiry and welcome orientation. Sessions are held on Monday evenings beginning at 7:00PM in Classroom 3.

For more information, contact Diane Sprigg: (858)748-1792.

RCIA is an excellent opportunity for sponsors to update their knowledged of theology and practices of the Catholic Church as well as experiencing the exciting journey of faith formation of those seeking membership.

For more information on being a sponsor, please contact Fr. Michael: (858)748-5348.

                             St. Gabriel's Roman Catholic Church
                                  13734 Twin Peaks Road
                                         Poway, CA 92064