sacraments of the catholic faith


"The Sacraments are not mere appearances, they are not rituals; they are the power of Christ.  Jesus Christ is present in the Sacraments." 

-- Pope Francis


Baptism, First Eucharist, Reconciliation, Confirmation, Holy Matrimony, Holy Orders, and The Anointing of the Sick -- as Catholics we are familiar with the Sacraments and see them as mileposts in our lives of faith.  As Pope Francis reminds us, the Sacraments are not simply observances;  they are portals through which the Lord brings us the power and grace that flow from His death and Resurrection.


Each Sacrament wonderfully opens us to a personal encounter with Jesus.

  • baptism

    Parents arrange the celebration of Baptism with the Pastor.  Please call the Parish Office after the child is born. Please note:   Baptisms are not celebrated during the season of Lent (from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday).


    Please call the parish office at 401-348-8765 to make arrangements.

  • RECONCILIATION

    At this time, Confession is held by appointment only.  Please call the parish office at 401-348-8765 to make arrangements.


    How to Make a Good Confession


    First Reconciliation:  Preparation begins in the 1st semester of the 2nd-grade of the St. Clare Religious Education Program.  First grade participation is required remote preparation for reconciliation and for First Communion, as well.  The celebration of First Reconciliation (or confession) takes place before Advent during the 1st semester of the 2nd-grade.



  • First Communion

    Preparation for this First Communion begins in the 1st-grade and concludes with the reception of the Eucharist in the 2nd-grade on the 4th Sunday of Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday.


    Contact Chris Magowan at the St. Pius X parish office at 401-596-2535 for further information. 

  • confirmation

    A two year program, Confirmation begins in 7th-grade and concludes with Confirmation in the 8th-grade.


    The Registration Form for 7th & 8th Grade Confirmation Candidates may be downloaded from the Religious Education page. 


    Sponsor Certificate information and Service Hour information can also be found on the Religious Education page.


    The Registration Form for Grades 1-7 is available on the Religious Education page, as well.


  • matrimony

    Couples planning to marry should contact our Marriage Coordinator one year before the wedding.


    Roman Catholic weddings at the Watch Hill & Weekapaug Chapels are arranged through St. Clare Church.  The Marriage Coordinator, not the Parish Secretary, manages all questions and details about weddings.


    Call the Parish Office at 401-348-8765 to be directed to Ellie Cote, Marriage Coordinator .

  • permissions & Records for Sacrements

    If you need proof of your Baptism to receive a Sacrament at another parish, and you were baptized at St. Clare or St. Vincent de Paul, you may obtain a copy of your baptismal certificate by calling the Parish Office at 401-348-8765.


    If you are called to be a Godparent for Baptism or a Sponsor for Confirmation, you may obtain a sponsorship form.  Requirements for sponsorship include:

    • Being a registered member of St. Clare Church
    • Being a Catholic in good standing (attend mass weekly and, if applicable) be in a valid marriage)
    • Having made all of your Sacraments
    • Upholding the promise and duties of a Sponsor/Godparent:  Sponsors or Godparents promise to walk with a child along the path of the Catholic faith, and serve as an example for them to follow.