Preparation to complete the sacraments of initiation (Confirmation and First Communion) begin with the faith witness of the family and home. When a child's parents discern a readiness for this important step, the family applies to begin the process of preparation during a designated time in late summer prior to the Spring in which they receive the sacraments. The date is published in late August or early September in the parish bulletin. Although preparation traditionally takes place in grade two, parents may discuss with the pastor and religious education director an individual child's preparation earlier or later than second grade based on the readiness and maturity of the individual child.

The process of preparation includes:

• Attendance at a Family Information and Interview Session on one of two Sunday afternoons in late summer (generally from 12:15-1:45 p.m.)
• Attendance at a Parent Orientation meeting (generally in October) and five family gatherings throughout the year (about 90 minutes each). A family may miss one session due to illness or family emergency, but will be required to meet with a mentoring family to make up the session. Failure to meet his standard will require that the family postpone the process of preparation until a time that is more convenient for the family.
• Catechesis in Faith formation either through St. Noel's GIFT program or attendance at a Catholic Day School.
• Completion of family ministry experiences and documented in family scrapbook.
• Special participation in liturgies on designated weekends for acceptance and blessings from the parish community.
• Celebration of Confirmation and First Communion at the parish liturgies (5:00 p.m. Saturday, or Sunday at 9:00, 11:00 a.m.) on a designated weekend in April or May (generally two or three weeks after Easter).
  

Preparation for First Reconciliation involves most importantly the readiness and maturity of the individual child. Catechesis takes place at all levels of religious development. The time to celebrate the "reconciling" in the context of the Church community is left to the decision of the child and parent; however an opportunity is provided to celebrate this sacrament at a communal reconciliation service for our young people before Easter, or at any time through an appointment with the Pastor.