As part of our commitment to faith, Saint Thomas School incorporates the preparation and celebration of three sacraments.

First Reconciliation

Celebrated in 2nd grade, the reception of the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation takes place in early December.  Through Baptism, we are welcomed into the Church family and Original Sin is taken away.  As we grow and learn, we also do things to offend God and weaken our relationship with Him and others.  The sacrament of Reconciliation is an opportunity for us to tell God we are sorry for our sins and ask for forgiveness.  During the sacrament, we are absolved of our sins and receive God’s grace to reunite us with the Church and with God.

During Advent and Lent, Grades 2-8 are given the opportunity to receive the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.

First Holy Communion

Celebrated in 2nd grade, the Sacrament of First Holy Communion takes place on the first Sunday of May.    From the beginning of the year, the order of the Mass is learned and practiced so that we can become more active listeners to the Word of God and join our voices with others in song and praise.  The word Eucharist means “thanksgiving.”  It is in thanksgiving that we receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ for the first time in this Sacrament.  We as Catholics, truly believe that during the consecration, the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.

This sacrament is rich in tradition at St. Thomas School.  Prior to receiving the Sacrament, the children visit the Passionist Nuns who make the hosts that they will receive on their First Communion Day.  They attend “Jesus Day,” in which they make their own bread from scratch and receive the Sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation.  During the First Communion Mass, every child is given a special part since it is such a special day for them.  On the Monday after First Communion, the First Communicants will attend the parish May Crowning.  On this special night, they will receive their Scapulars of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and stand as honor guard for the 8th grade class as they process in to crown Mary.  A newer tradition to this sacrament is a visit to Our Lady’s Farm in Falmouth, KY during the following week.

Confirmation

Celebrated in 8th grade, students are invited to take their Catholic faith into their own hands and affirm their beliefs as they are enriched with the Holy Spirit.  Confirmation is the third and final Sacrament of Initiation. When one is “Confirmed” they are then full members of the Catholic Church. Our eighth graders prepare for Confirmation through regular attendance at Sunday Mass, attendance of the Confirmation retreat, completion of service hours and renewal of Baptismal Promises.  The Bishop is invited to Saint Thomas Church, each year in January, to celebrate this special sacrament with students.