Baptism is the foundational sacrament for a Christian. Through baptism one is freed from the chaos and slavery of sin and led to new life in Christ, who shows the newly baptized the way to the Father through the power of the Holy Spirit. Through baptism, one becomes a disciple of Christ and a member of the Christian community, the Church.

To arrange for the Baptism of a child contact the Parish Office at 815-857-2315 to make an appointment with Fr. Gow.  Families must live in the boundaries of St. Patrick, St. Flannen or St. Mary Parish.

The Eucharist culminates the process of initiation. In the Eucharist we are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, the moment when he made a total gift of himself to God and to us. As we unite ourselves with Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist we celebrate what we believe. The Eucharist thus nourishes us in our journey of discipleship. When we live as Christ taught us, by dying to self and making love of God and neighbor the first priority in our life, then we will share in his resurrection

First Holy Communion is normally celebrated in the Spring when a child is in second grade or higher. Religious instruction is given during our Religious Education classes.

Confirmation is the sacrament of initiation in which the gifts of the Holy Spirit are called down upon a person by the anointing of the fragrant oil of chrism. It confirms a person in their commitment to see, celebrate and live life as Christ taught.

The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated every other year.  Preparation for the Sacrament is given during our Relgious Education classes and is determined by the Bishop's schedule.
 

For Catholics, the Sacrament of marriage is a public sign that one gives oneself totally to another person. It is also a public statement about God: the loving union speaks of family and God's values.

Couples who are contemplating a wedding at St. Patrick Parish should contact the parish at least six months before the anticipated date. No date can be finalized until the appropriate marriage preparation has taken place. Contact the Parish Office at 815-857-2315 to make an appointment with Fr. Gow.