Sacraments
The Seven Sacraments are sacred rituals instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church as visible signs of God’s grace. They accompany believers through life’s key spiritual moments, strengthening their relationship with God and the Church. The sacraments are grouped into three categories: Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Healing, and Sacraments of Service.
Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is the first sacrament in the Catholic Church, marking a person’s entry into the Christian faith. Through the pouring of water and invocating the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, baptism cleanses original sin, grants sanctifying grace, and makes the individual a member of the Body of Christ. Rooted in Jesus’ command (Matthew 28:19), it is essential for salvation and opens the path to receiving the other sacraments. Typically performed by a priest or deacon, baptism signifies new life in Christ and a commitment to the faith.
English Baptisms are held on the second Saturday of each month, and Spanish Baptisms are held on the third Saturday of each month. English classes are scheduled by appointment by calling the Parish Office. For Spanish class information, please contact Elena Rodriguez at 470-737-0363.
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation, also called Confession or Penance, is a sacrament in the Catholic Church where individuals confess their sins to a priest, express contrition, and receive absolution through God’s mercy. Rooted in Jesus’ authority to forgive sins (John 20:23), this sacrament restores the soul’s sanctifying grace, strengthens the relationship with God, and brings spiritual healing. Through prayer and penance, the penitent seeks to amend their life and grow in holiness. Reconciliation is an essential part of the Christian journey, offering forgiveness, peace, and renewal in God’s love.
Confessions are held on Wednesdays from 6:00 to 6:45 pm and on Saturdays from 4:00 to 4:45 pm.
Eucharist
The Sacrament of the Eucharist, also called Holy Communion, is the central act of worship in the Catholic Church, where the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ through transubstantiation. Instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper (Luke 22:19-20), the Eucharist is both a sacrament of unity and a source of grace, nourishing the soul and deepening one’s relationship with Christ. Receiving the Eucharist strengthens faith, forgives venial sins, and unites believers with the Church and one another. It is the summit of Christian life, celebrated in the Mass, where Catholics partake in Christ’s sacrifice and receive His real presence.
For information on children receiving the sacrament, contact Cynthia Simien at religioused@christourhopeatl.org. Adults who want to receive the sacrament must participate in our OCIA program. Please contact Brenda Chee Wah at 770-482-1642.
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is a Catholic sacrament that strengthens and deepens the grace received in Baptism, sealing the individual with the Holy Spirit. Through the laying on of hands and anointing with chrism oil by a bishop or priest, the recipient is empowered to live out their faith with greater commitment. Rooted in Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4), Confirmation bestows the gifts of the Holy Spirit, helping the confirmed person grow in holiness and become a stronger witness to Christ. This sacrament completes Christian initiation, equipping the faithful to actively participate in the Church’s mission.
In the Archdiocese of Atlanta, the sacrament is received in 10th Grade. For information, contact Cynthia Simien at religioused@christourhopeatl.org. Adults who want to receive the sacrament must participate in our OCIA program. For more information, contact Brenda Chee Wah at 770-482-1642.
Matrimony
The Sacrament of Matrimony is a sacred covenant in which a man and a woman unite in a lifelong commitment of love, fidelity, and openness to life. Rooted in God’s design for marriage (Genesis 2:24), this sacrament reflects Christ’s love for the Church (Ephesians 5:25) and is a source of grace that strengthens the couple to live out their vocation. Through their vows, exchanged before a priest or deacon, the couple becomes a visible sign of God’s love, forming a domestic church where faith is nurtured. Matrimony is both a sacrament and a vocation, calling spouses to mutual sanctification and the raising of children in the faith.
Contact the Pastor at least six (6) month in advance.
Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the Catholic Church’s sacrament through which bishops, priests, and deacons are ordained to serve God’s people. Rooted in Jesus’ commissioning of His apostles (Luke 22:19, John 20:21), this sacrament imparts a spiritual character that enables ordained ministers to preach the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and shepherd the faithful. Through the laying on of hands and prayer of consecration, the Holy Spirit grants the grace needed for their sacred duties. Holy Orders is essential to the Church’s mission, ensuring the continuation of Christ’s ministry through ordained leadership.
Contact the Pastor for more information or contact the Office of Vocations at www.calledbychrist.com.
Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is a Catholic sacrament that brings spiritual healing, strength, and, if God’s will, physical healing to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or near death. Rooted in James 5:14-15, this sacrament is administered by a priest, who anoints the sick person with holy oil, prays for their healing, and grants God’s grace and forgiveness. It provides peace, courage, and a deeper union with Christ’s suffering, offering comfort in times of illness. When received near death, it is often accompanied by Reconciliation and the Eucharist as part of the Last Rites.
The sacrament is offered on the first Saturday of each month after the 5:00 pm Vigil Mass. Contact the Parish Office or our Sacramental Emergency line for Last Rites at 404-913-5564.