Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation in Christianity, marking a person’s entry into the faith and their spiritual rebirth. It is considered essential for salvation in most Christian traditions, as it cleanses the individual of original sin and personal sin and unites them with Christ.

In the Ukrainian Catholic Church, baptism is part of a unified sacramental initiation. Infants not only receive baptism but are also chrismated (confirmed), and receive the Eucharist during the same ceremony. This emphasizes the theological unity of these sacraments and signifies full membership in the Church from the very beginning of a person’s spiritual life.

Typically, this sacrament is preformed as part of the liturgy but private ceremonies as possible upon request.

The Sacrament of Chrismation is the Eastern Catholic equivalent of the Roman Catholic Sacrament of Confirmation. It is a sacrament of initiation that seals the baptized person with the gift of the Holy Spirit, strengthening them in faith and uniting them more deeply with Christ and the Church. In the Ukrainian Catholic Church, chrismation immediately proceeds the baptism.

Confession, also called the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance, is the sacrament where individuals confess their sins to a priest and receive absolution. It is a means of spiritual healing, restoring the person’s relationship with God and the Church, which is damaged by sin.

In the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, the general guideline is that individuals should approach the Eucharist (Holy Communion) in a state of grace, meaning free from mortal (serious) sin.

Confession is available after each liturgy upon request of the priest.

Communion, also called the Eucharist, is a central sacrament in Christianity where believers receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ under the appearances of bread and wine. It is a profound expression of unity with Christ and the Church, commemorating Jesus' sacrifice on the Cross and His Resurrection.

In the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, Communion is given under both species—the Body (bread) and Blood (wine) of Christ—together, and leavened bread is used, symbolizing the risen Christ.

Since infants receive communion as part of their initiation, they can also receive the Eucharist during liturgy, reflecting the Byzantine understanding of full participation in the sacramental life from baptism onward. Instead, once a child turns 7-9 years of age, they participate in their First Solemn Communion. This is a formal celebration marking the first time a child receives the Eucharist with full understanding and conscious participation. It acknowledges the child’s growing awareness of the faith and their ability to participate meaningfully in the sacrament.

The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament that provides spiritual and sometimes physical healing to those who are seriously ill, facing surgery, or near death. It is a sacrament of healing and strength, offering God’s grace to the sick person. In the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, the Anointing of the Sick emphasizes God’s mercy and care for the whole person—body, soul, and spirit. It is a sacrament of hope and trust in God’s healing power and love.

Please remember that this sacrament is not just reserved for those nearing the end of life, but also for individuals preparing for major surgery, elderly people experiencing weakness due to aging, and other severe ailments.

This sacrament can be performed in the church but if you are not able to make it to church please contact us to have the priest travel to you.

Marriage is a sacred sacrament where a man and a woman enter into a lifelong covenant of love and unity, blessed by God and the Church. It is a divine institution rooted in Scripture and tradition, reflecting the union of Christ and His Church. Marriage imparting grace to the couple to live out their union in love, faith, and mutual support. It sanctifies the relationship, making it a path to holiness for both spouses.

If you are interested in being married at St. Andrew’s the First-Called please speak to the priest after the liturgy or contact our administrative staff to learn more.

Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, as part of the Catholic Church, ordains men to serve in specific roles of ministry, including deacons, priests, and bishops. It is a sacrament of service, enabling ordained clergy to lead the faithful in worship, administer the sacraments, and guide the Church. The Holy Orders is a sacrament of leadership, humility, and service in the image of Christ.

If you or a loved one are interested in joining the Holy Orders please speak to the priest after the liturgy or contact our administrative staff to learn more.