Ascension Church
808 S. East Avenue
Oak Park, IL 60304

708/848-2703

Sacramental Preparation

Baptismal Preparation
The Baptism Preparation Ministry is made up of members of our faith community who are committed to improving and strengthening the Infant Baptism Ministry at Ascension. Members conduct preparatory sessions twice a month for parents wishing to baptize their children to provide information about baptism and allow for reflection on the sacrament. Members of the team assist during the celebration of baptism in our parish by setting up for the ceremony, welcoming the families and their guests, and assisting the priest as needed. The team also serves as a small faith group and seeks to encourage the spiritual growth of its members through fellowship, adult formation, and training activities.

Parish celebration of infant Baptism takes place at 12:30 pm, usually on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month. A required preparatory session for parents is held once a month in the Pine Room. These sessions are at 9:00 AM on the July 14, August 11, September 8, October 13, November 10 and December 8 in 2007. For the first six months of 2008, the sessions will be on January 12, February 9, March 8, April 12, May 10 and June 14. Expectant parents as well as parents whose children have already arrived are welcome to attend. To register for a preparatory session or to schedule a baptism, please call the parish office, ext 231.

Baptismal preparation for school age children
Contact the Director of Religious Education.

Christian Initiation of Adults
Christian Initiation welcomes all those who turn to the Catholic Church seeking baptism and acceptance into full communion with the Catholic Church. Companion Sponsors from the Ascension Community accompany those interested in this journey along the sacramental path to full initiation. The groups also embrace and support those baptized Catholics who seek to return to full practice of the Catholic faith or complete their sacraments of initiation.

Marriage Preparation
Mentor Couples who have been married at least five years work with couples preparing for marriage and those newly married to help them set a solid foundation for a life-giving, growthful relationship strong enough to weather the storms and challenges ahead. The group also sponsors monthly informational gatherings for those preparing for the sacrament. Mentor couples work with a couple in preparation for marriage for six months to a year.

Wedding Music Workshops are conducted throughout the year by the Music Director. The purpose of the workshop is to assist the engaged couple in the planning and preparation of the prayers and music of the wedding liturgy. Consult the bulletin for the Workshop dates and for information on registration.