Sacraments
Living out our Faith at the Church of Saint Francis Xavier
Baptism The celebration of infant baptism will be scheduled after the parents have completed the pre-baptismal instructions in their parish. Non-parishioners must have the permission of their pastor for the baptism to take place.
Baptism is available for family members of registered parishioners. Baptisms are celebrated at the weekend Masses. Contact the Parish Office (618) 457-4556
RCIA Adults wishing to join or come home to the Catholic Church can take part in the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process. RCIA sessions are offered on Wednesday evenings.
We welcome all who are inquiring about the Catholic faith. Please call the Xavier Parish Office at (618) 457-4556 for additional information. Visit our Religious Education RCIA page for schedule.
Reconciliation/Confession When he celebrates the sacrament of Reconciliation, or Penance, the priest is fulfilling the ministry of the Good Shepherd who seeks the lost sheep and of the Father who welcomes home the prodigal son on his return. The priest is the sign and the instrument of God's merciful love for the sinner.
The sacrament of Reconciliation is celebrated weekly on Saturdays and Communal Penance Services during the season of Advent and Lent.
Marriage (Contact Xavier Hall Parish Office)
Weddings are arranged through the Xavier parish office at (618) 457-4556
Anointing of the Sick Any adult Catholic with a serious illness or undergoing major surgery is eligible to receive this Sacrament.
Funerals Funerals are scheduled in consultation with the family of the deceased and the funeral home serving the family. They are ordinarily scheduled at 10:00am. Funerals must be scheduled in order to respect other already scheduled services or events as well.
Eucharistic Adoration Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is held weekly on Mondays following the 12:15pm Mass on 24 hour Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is held quarterly.(check the bulletin for dates) Exposition ends with Benediction.
Mass Intentions A person may ask a priest or a parish to offer a Mass for a particular intention; a stipend is offered to the priest or parish for offering the Mass, which thereby in justice creates an obligation which must be satisfied.
The origins of this practice date to the early Church. When we face the death of someone, even a person who is not Catholic, to have a Mass offered for the repose of his soul and to offer our prayers are more beneficial and comforting than any other sympathy card or bouquet of flowers. To have a Mass offered on the occasion of a birthday, anniversary or special need is appropriate, beneficial and appreciated.