For more information or to make arrangements, please contact the Parish Office at (562) 431-0721.
Baptism is the first Sacrament of Initiation in the Christian faith, marking entry into the Church and opening the door to the full sacramental life, including Eucharist and Confirmation. Through Baptism, we are cleansed from sin, united with Christ, and transformed into new creations destined for eternal life.
The rite involves pouring water over the candidate's head while invoking the Holy Trinity and often includes anointing with holy oil, receiving a white garment, and lighting a candle from the Paschal Candle. The ordinary ministers of Baptism are a priest or a deacon.
Parents of infants participate in a preparation program, and those aged seven and older undergo a two-year process to receive the Sacraments of Initiation.
When we are confirmed, we receive the Holy Spirit through the anointing with oil and the laying on of hands by the bishop or a priest appointed by him. We show that we belong to God when we receive this sacred seal. By their anointing, the Old Testament prophets, kings, and priests were elevated to a special position in their service to God.
So it is with us when we receive the holy oil on our foreheads; we become part of the priesthood of all believers, witnesses to Christ, and heirs to His throne.
The Eucharist is the sacrament where we receive the true Body and Blood of Christ. Although the bread and wine retain their appearance, the Church teaches that they become Christ’s real presence when consecrated. Rooted in the Jewish Passover, the Eucharist was instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper, where He blessed and shared bread and wine, declaring them His body and blood.
Baptized children preparing for their First Communion can begin a two-year process as early as 1st grade.
There is a separate formation program for adults who desire the Sacraments of Initiation.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Penance or Confession) is a celebration of God’s mercy and forgiveness for baptized Catholics. It offers us a way to confront the regrets and guilt we may carry—whether from actions, words, or thoughts. These burdens often grow heavier when kept inside. Reconciliation provides a space to express sorrow, heal broken relationships, and restore our connection with God.
In the sacrament, the priest, acting in the person of Jesus, listens to our confessions and, on behalf of the community, offers absolution, freeing us from the bonds of sin. Through this powerful act of forgiveness, the Church mirrors the father of the prodigal son, rejoicing in the return of those who were lost: “Your brother was dead and has come back to life; he was lost and is found” (Luke 15:32).
This sacrament involves three key elements: prayer, the laying on of hands, and anointing with oil, which together provide comfort and spiritual strength.
The Anointing of the Sick is available for Catholics who are seriously ill, facing a medical emergency, or experiencing the challenges of aging.
The Sacrament of Marriage is a sign of this divine love, representing the self-giving commitment between two baptized people. The joy and mutual support in marriage can empower couples to serve others and become a source of life, hope, and comfort to those around them.
In the Sacrament of Marriage, the couple themselves are the ministers, while the priest or deacon acts as a witness.
To arrange a wedding at St. Anne, please reserve the date at least six months in advance. We recommend booking the church date before planning the wedding reception. Your date and time will be confirmed after meeting with the priest or deacon, who will guide you through the preparation process.
As members of the Church, we all share in the priesthood of Christ, reflecting the “priesthood of all believers.” We are each called to live out this priesthood by supporting and serving one another. Among the various forms of service in the Church, Holy Orders stands out as a sacrament that ordains individuals to the roles of bishop, priest, or deacon.
Bishops, priests, and deacons each play a crucial role in preaching the gospel, teaching the faithful, and caring for the needy. Through their ordination, they commit to imitating Christ as servants and shepherds.
The Church faces a growing need for priests and deacons to serve its expanding Catholic community. Those called to this vocation find a deeply rewarding and fulfilling path in serving as shepherds of God’s people.
At a Catholic Mass, altar servers assist the priest and deacon by preparing the altar, helping with the Eucharist, and carrying the processional cross or candles.
They also may hold the Missal, bring the bread and wine during the Offertory, and place the sacred vessels on the credence table.
Their support enhances the liturgy and aids the priest in leading the congregation in worship.
We are looking for adult servers to serve at Funerals and Weddings.
A Lector inspires the faith of the assembly by proclaiming the Word of the Lord with clarity and conviction, contributing meaningfully to Eucharistic celebrations.
Duties include serving once or twice a month, attending training, arriving 15 minutes early, and dressing appropriately.
Lectors must prepare their readings, learn pronunciations, and read thoughtfully to ensure effective presentation.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priest in distributing Holy Communion during Mass. To serve, one must believe in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, be a fully initiated Catholic who has received Baptism, First Eucharist, and Confirmation, and be at least 25 years old.
Duties include serving once or twice a month at a chosen weekend Mass, finding a replacement if unable to serve, attending periodic training, arriving 15 minutes early, and dressing appropriately.
They should live the Gospel message sincerely and, if married, be married in the Church. Proper training and commissioning by the Bishop are required before serving.
Ushers ensure the smooth execution of the liturgy, the safety of the congregation, and the security of their offerings.
Ushers are selected for their calm demeanor, sensitivity, welcoming attitude, and knowledge of parish policies. During their assigned Mass, they handle any arising issues and are trained in emergency procedures, including guiding people to safety.
As the first point of contact for attendees, ushers should be friendly, honest, and dedicated, embodying the values of integrity, cordiality, and wisdom.
Music Ministry plays a vital role in enhancing the worship experience through music. It involves selecting and performing hymns and other sacred music during Mass and other liturgical events.
Members of the Music Ministry, which can include choir singers, instrumentalists, and cantors, work together to support and elevate the liturgy, helping the congregation to engage more deeply in prayer and worship.
This ministry also creates a reverent and uplifting atmosphere, encouraging spiritual reflection and community participation.
Our Bereavement Ministry supports individuals and families experiencing grief and loss. It provides compassionate care and comfort by helping a family plan the funeral liturgy and assist during the liturgy.
