Mysteries

In the East, the sacraments are referred to as Mysteries.  

Eucharist
"The process of becoming God's dwelling place in the Spirit, the Body of Christ, is realized most fully in the Eucharist."  (Fr. Petras et al, Light for Life, Part One: The Mystery Believed, page 68).

In the Ruthenian Byzantine Catholic Church, communion is received by spoon.  If you are in communion with the Catholic Churches and you wish to receive communion, cross your hands across your chest.  Father may ask your name to include in the prayer as he serves you communion. Open your mouth wide and Father will pour the Body and Blood into your mouth.  Please don't close your mouth on the spoon. Then you may return to your seat and pray.

If you are not in communion with the Catholic Churches, you may receive a blessing from Father instead of taking communion.  Place your finger in front of your lips as you approach the altar.

In our tradition, first communion is typically given at the time of Baptism/Chrismation, so you may see very young children (and even infants) receiving communion!  If your child has not yet received their first communion, they can instead receive a blessing by putting their finger in front of their lips.

Confession
In the East, confession is seen as a way to heal from events that have separated you from God (either sins you have committed or events that have harmed you).  Confessions are offered at St. Basil's on Saturdays and Sundays before Divine Liturgy or by appointment.

Baptism/Chrismation
In the Ruthenian tradition, Rites of initiation are performed all at once (as in the Early Church).  Baptism, Chrismation (equivalent to Roman "confirmation"), and first Eucharist are all celebrated on the same day.  If you wish for your child (or yourself!) to be Baptized, Chrismated, and/or receive first Communion, please speak with Father for arrangements.  We are happy to welcome you further into the life of Christ!

Marriage/The Mystery of Crowning
Traditionally, a Byzantine Catholic marriage begins with a betrothal, in which the bride and groom exchange rings.  The marriage itself is considered sacramental the moment the couple are crowned as martyrs for Jesus and for each other.  The ceremony is called the Mystery of Crowning.

If you are a subject of the Byzantine Catholic Church and are considering marriage in the Ruthenian Byzantine tradition, congratulations!  Please speak with Father at least six months before your desired wedding date. If your future spouse is not a Byzantine Catholic, Father will explain what is involved and next steps.  St. Basil's would be honored to celebrate your wedding.

Holy Orders
In the Ruthenian Rite, holy orders are open to single and married men wishing to enter the diaconate or the priesthood.  If you feel called to discern the diaconate or the priesthood, we encourage you to speak with Father or one of the Deacons of St. Basil's.

Anointing of the Sick
If you or a loved one would benefit from the anointing of the sick, our deepest sympathies are with you.  Please speak with Father for arrangements.