Restored Order of Initiation Sacraments

For more than 20 years the Catholic Church in Maine has followed the original or "restored order" of celebrating the initiation sacraments with children: Baptism as an infant (newborn to age 6) with Confirmation and first Holy Communion in the same Mass around what Canon Law describes as "the age of reason" (typically ages 7 to 12).

Two Year Preparation Process

In the Diocese of Portland there is a minimum of a two-year process for baptized children to prepare for completing initiation into the Catholic Church through receiving the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist in addition to the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Year One Sacramental Preparation

Year One provides initial formation in the foundations of the faith. The minimum age for a child entering Year One is six years old, or entering First Grade.

Year Two Sacramental Preparation

Year Two prepares children to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Eucharist, in addition to the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This process provides children the time to learn and develop a relationship with God; understand and desire the sacraments; learn to pray; and be involved in the life of the Church. The minimum age for a child entering Year Two is seven years old, or entering Second Grade.

Unbaptized Children and Adults

This two-year process is designed for children who have been baptized and have been active in the faith, praying together as a family, worshipping at Sunday Mass, and participating in Faith Formation or attending a Catholic School. If your child has not yet been baptized, or if you would like to learn more about becoming Catholic, please contact the Pastoral Center at 207-623-8823.