Sacraments
The sacraments are sacred gifts that mark the most meaningful moments of our faith journey—from the waters of Baptism to the grace of the Eucharist and beyond. If you or a loved one are seeking information about receiving a sacrament, we would be honored to walk with you. Please submit a Sacrament Inquiry form below, and a member of our parish family will be in touch.
Baptism
To baptize your child, please begin by contacting the Parish Office. Parents and godparents must complete all required forms and attend a baptism preparation class, which is offered regularly but requires advance registration. Once all requirements are fulfilled, a date and time for the baptism may be scheduled. There is no fee for baptisms, though a stipend to the celebrant is customary and left to your discretion.
Baptism informational packets in Spanish and English are available outside the parish office If you have any questions you can contact the parish office or visit us during our office hours.
The Role of Godparents
Baptism Information
reconciliation
Confession Times:
Monday–Friday: 7:30 AM-8:00 AM
Thursday: 6:00-7:00 PM
Saturday: 8:30-10:00 AM
The line for confessions will form in the hallway outside the parish office.
- Examination of Conscience Shorter English
- Examination of Conscience Shorter Act Spanish
- An Examination of Conscience for Children
Communion
As Catholics, we fully participate in the celebration of the Eucharist when we receive Holy Communion. To receive the Lord’s body and blood worthily, you must:
- Be a fully participating member of the Catholic Church
- Have made a good confession since your last mortal sin or within the past 12 months
- Believe in transubstantiation
- Observe the one-hour Eucharistic fast
- Be free of any ecclesiastical censure
Communion may be received in the hand or on the tongue, kneeling or standing.
We warmly welcome those who do not share our Catholic faith to Mass. Though they cannot receive communion, they are invited to come forward with arms crossed over their chest to receive a blessing, or to remain seated in prayerful reflection.
First Holy Communion
First Holy Communion is prepared through a two-year program alongside preparation for First Reconciliation.
Homebound?
Don’t let health separate you from the Sacraments. Contact the Parish Office at secretary@stjosephathens.com or 706-548-6332 to arrange a visit.
Confirmation
High school teens prepare for Confirmation through a two-year program. For more information, submit the Inquiry Form or contact the Religious Education Office.
Adults entering the Church or completing missed sacraments of initiation are welcomed through a one-year journey called the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA).
Confirmation Class Updates
Marriage
In the Catholic Church, marriage is a sacred covenant in which a man and a woman freely give themselves to one another for life. Raised by Christ to the dignity of a sacrament, it is a visible sign of God’s faithful and life-giving love. Strengthened by grace, the married couple is called to grow in holiness together and to build up the family — the “domestic church.”
The marriage application is available outside the office. Please complete it and return it once finished. After submission, it will be assigned to a priest—or to the priest requested by the couple—who will contact you within two weeks.
Sacrament of Holy Matrimony
- Learn more
Holy Orders
If you feel called to the priesthood, we encourage you to speak with a priest who can guide you through this journey of prayer and discernment. Contact the Parish Office to schedule an appointment.
Anointing of the Sick
If you or a loved one is ill and would like a visit from a priest or deacon, please contact the Parish Office.
Sacramental Emergency:
In urgent situations such as sudden illness, accident, or imminent death, please text (for fastest response) or call our Sacramental Emergency line at 470-377-2153. Messages are sent immediately to all our priests, and one will contact you as soon as possible.
