Even though only a chaplaincy, the Vital Grandin Chaplaincy has the faculties to confect all the sacraments. We celebrate the sacraments throughout the year and provide sacramental preparation programs for children and adults. All sacraments at the Vital Grandin Chaplaincy are administered according to the 1962 books and rubrics.

Baptism

“Know you not that all we, who are baptized in Christ Jesus, are baptized in his death? For we are buried together with him by baptism into death; that as Christ is risen from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also may walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection.” Rom. 6: 3-5

Holy Baptism is the gateway to the Christian religion and to eternal life. It therefore holds the first place among the sacraments instituted by Christ for the New Covenant and is necessary unto salvation for all, either in act or desire. This is testified by the divine Truth Himself in these words: “Unless a man be born again of water and the Holy Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” John 3: 5

To have a child baptised (0-7 years old) parents must contact the chaplain at least 6 weeks prior. Typically parents will be required to attend a pre-baptismal class. At least one sponsor is required and must have a letter of good standing from his parish. Adults seeking to become Catholics contact the chaplain. A six month course is usually required.

Reconciliation

The holy sacrament of penance was instituted by Christ the Lord so that the faithful who have fallen back into sin after baptism may be restored to God’s grace. It brings full pardon of sin, with full remission of eternal punishment.

The sacrament of Confession is available 30 minutes before all masses. You are always welcome to phone and arrange a confession through appointment especially if it is an emergency.

Holy Eucharist

There is nothing more sublime, nothing holier, nothing more wonderful in the Church of God than the sacrament of the Eucharist. For in It is contained the highest of God’s gifts, Christ, the Lord Himself, Author and Source of all grace and holiness.

The most holy sacrament of the Eucharist is dispensed at every mass. Please refer to Mass Times page.

First Confession & First Holy Communion

Children receive their first confession and communion when they have reached the age of reason (typically 7 years old). It is the parents’ role, as primary faith educators of their children, to discern when the child is ready. Classes to prepare children for the reception of these sacraments are offered, but not every year. On those years that classes are not offered, parents will be expected to teach and catechize their children. Contact the chaplain for more information.  

Confirmation

Christ our Lord has instituted confirmation as the sacrament which complements, perfects, or strengthens the divine life implanted in us through baptism. It is the noble fulfilment of the act of Christian regeneration (baptism). Its purpose is to augment and bring to completion our entrance into the Mystery which is Christ.

In the Archdiocese of Edmonton confirmation normally takes place when a child has reached the age of 11-12. In the chaplaincy we offer this sacrament usually once every 2 years. The confirmandi must attend a preparatory course. If your child is to be confirmed let the chaplain know.

Matrimony

Holy matrimony in its very essence is part and parcel of the “new creation” resulting from the espousal of God’s eternal Son with His human creatures. It is above all else a sacrament, and somewhat like the consecratory sacraments which imprint a character, matrimony constitutes a Christian couple in a new relationship to Christ and to His bride, the Church.

A couple wishing to marry should contact the chaplain at least six months before any proposed date of marriage. If either party is under 19 years of age more notice must be given. The priest will want to discuss your readiness for Christian marriage, preparation for marriage courses, the documents required for marriage, and the ceremony itself. All couples preparing for marriage must attend a marriage preparation course. In the chaplaincy this is usually given by the chaplain. This sacrament is only available to couples who attend the sacraments regularly at Vital Grandin Chaplaincy.

Extreme Unction (Anointing of the Sick)

The sacrament of Extreme unction was instituted by Christ our Lord as a heavenly remedy, not only for the soul but likewise for the body’s well being. Although it is not per se required for salvation by necessity of means, nevertheless, no one may neglect to receive it, and it must be employed with all care and zeal in cases of critical illness.

It is the duty of those close to the ill person to make sure that a priest is contacted for the reception of the anointing of the sick. Your parish priest has a duty to see that you receive the sacrament and will do so when contacted. The chaplain may also be contacted especially in a case of a true sacramental emergency such as danger of death due to illness. Call (587)454-1622 to speak to the chaplain.

Holy orders

Men who are seriously discerning a call to the Priesthood, or men or women who are discerning a religious vocation are invited to contact the chaplain.