St. Mary of Vernon Catholic Church

Catholic Doctrine

The Eucharist is at the heart and center of the sacramental life. The Second Vatican Council referred to it as the summit and the source of the whole Christian life. The Eucharist not only signifies but actually contains the body and blood of Christ. At the Eucharist we gather together around a common table and partake of the banquet that Christ has prepared for us -- now and for all eternity.

Universal Meaning 

The Eucharist also has a more universal meaning and significance. It is a reminder to everyone that we are one family under God and that our family solidarity is sustained and deepened by the ordinary things of life, especially through our eating together. We eat together not just for physical nourishment, but also to celebrate and strengthen the bonds of love and friendship that give our lives meaning, purpose, and direction.

Eucharist is one of the sacraments of initiation. Christian initiation is accomplished by three sacraments together: Baptism which is the beginning of new life; Confirmation which is its strengthening; and the Eucharist which nourishes the disciple with Christ's Body and Blood for his transformation in Christ.

(from the Catechism of the Catholic Church, article 1275)

Ministers of Care 

Ministers of Care bring the sacrament of Eucharist to the sick and homebound of the community in order to keep parishioners connected with our Sunday liturgies. It is our intent to bring the love and peace of Jesus Christ and the care and concern of the parish community to those in need. For more information, contact Director of Ministry of Care John Glenn.

First Communion (PREP)

Parents are the primary catechists in preparing children to receive the sacrament of Eucharist. The parish staff works closely with parents in this preparation during the child’s second grade year. Before a child is enrolled in the sacramental preparation program, he or she will have completed the first level of PREP at St. Mary of Vernon or the equivalent in another program. First Eucharist is celebrated by classes during May and June. Individual first communions are arranged through the PREP office. For more information, contact Director of Religious Education Joyce Rout.