Office > Christian Formation

Sacrament Preparation

NEW Resources:

Parents First Reconciliation
Family Adoration for First Communion Families
First Communion Learning Stations

On January 1, 2013, Bishop DiLorenzo established the diocesan Instruction for Sacraments – Infant Baptism, First Penance, and First Holy Communion.  Each Instruction includes a brief theology of the sacrament, pastoral directives, and frequently asked questions.

Founded on the principle “…the family home is rightly called ‘the domestic church,’ a community of grace and prayer, a school of human virtues and of Christian charity” (CCC 1666), these Instructions direct our parish efforts to the parents by welcoming families seeking sacraments and strengthening their ability to pass on the faith to their children through catechesis and ongoing support of Catholic home life.

To view a copy of the complete Instructions and access resources for implementation:

For assistance with the full implementation of these Instructions or to order a print copy, contact Megan Cottam, 804-622-5149 or [email protected].

Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Form: Click Here to view the Godparent/Sponsor Attestation Forms and supporting documents. Please link to this site to ensure you have the current version of all forms and FAQs.  The current version is dated February 1, 2021 on the top of each page.  This form is policy effective August 22, 2019.

Persons with Disabilities – Each Instruction includes suggestions for celebrating the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities. More assistance can be found on the Center for Marriage, Family and Life website.

En Español – The Frequently Asked Questions portion of each Instruction has been translated into Spanish and are in each booklet.

For assistance with the Diocesan Policy and Guidelines for Preparation of Baptized Adolescents to Receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, contact the Office of Evangelization for Youth and Young Adults, [email protected] or call 804-622-5159.