Sacraments at St. Edward's
The Sacraments are outward signs instituted by Christ to give grace and are at the heart of our Catholic faith. Through the seven Sacraments—Baptism, Eucharist, Confirmation, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony, and Holy Orders—we encounter Jesus in a real and powerful way. Each one marks a sacred moment in our spiritual journey, drawing us closer to God and the life of the Church. They nourish, heal, and strengthen us to live as faithful disciples in the world.
Baptism
Baptism is the first of the seven sacraments and the foundation of the Christian life. Through the waters of baptism, we are cleansed of original sin, reborn as children of God, and welcomed into the Body of Christ, the Church. It is a sacred moment of grace, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith, discipleship, and communion with Christ. In following the example of Jesus, who was baptized in the Jordan River, we embrace our identity as beloved sons and daughters of the Father. At St. Edward’s, we joyfully celebrate this sacrament and walk alongside families as they take this important step in faith.
For more information, contact:
Bonnie Westlake
bonnie.westlake@stedwardsny.org
Eucharist
First Eucharist is a deeply meaningful milestone in a child’s faith journey, as they receive the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ for the very first time. Rooted in the Last Supper, this sacrament is the heart of our Catholic life, nourishing us with Christ’s real presence and uniting us more fully to Him and to one another. At St. Edward’s, we prepare children and their families for this sacred moment through prayer, learning, and participation in the life of the Church. It is a joyful celebration that deepens their connection to the Mass and invites them to the table of the Lord in a new and profound way.
For more information, contact:
Noreen Hayden
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is a powerful encounter with God’s mercy and love, offering healing, forgiveness, and a fresh start. Through confession, we acknowledge our sins before God and receive absolution through the ministry of the priest, who acts in the person of Christ. This sacrament restores our relationship with God and strengthens us to live more fully in His grace. At St. Edward’s, we encourage all to experience the peace and renewal that come from Reconciliation, whether it’s your first time or part of your regular spiritual practice. It is a beautiful reminder that no matter how far we may stray, God is always ready to welcome us back.
Reconciliation is offered:
Saturday, 3:00 - 3:30pm
First Friday, 7:00 - 8:00pm
By Appointment
Confirmation
Confirmation is the sacrament that seals and strengthens the grace of Baptism, empowering us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to live out our faith boldly and fully. It marks a deepening of our commitment to Christ and the Church, calling us to be active witnesses of the Gospel in our daily lives. Through the anointing with sacred chrism and the laying on of hands by the bishop, we are spiritually equipped to grow in holiness and service. At St. Edward’s, we walk with our candidates and their families as they prepare for this important step, offering formation, prayer, and community support. Confirmation is not an end, but a new beginning in a life of discipleship and mission.
For more information, contact
Deacon Eddie Trevino
Matrimony
The Sacrament of Matrimony is a sacred covenant in which a man and woman are united in love, blessed by God, and called to reflect Christ’s faithful, self-giving love for His Church. Through their vows, the couple becomes a visible sign of God’s presence in the world, promising to support one another and to grow together in holiness. Marriage is a lifelong journey of grace, rooted in faith and open to the gift of children. At St. Edward’s, we joyfully support engaged couples as they prepare for this beautiful vocation, offering guidance, prayerful preparation, and a community that walks with them in love.
For more information, contact:
Bonnie Westlake
bonnie.westlake@stedwardsny.org
Anointing of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing, comfort, and strength for those who are seriously ill, elderly, or facing surgery. Rooted in the compassion of Christ, this sacrament offers spiritual and sometimes physical healing, the forgiveness of sins, and the grace to face suffering with peace and trust in God. It reminds us that no one is alone in times of weakness—Christ is present and the Church stands beside those in need. At St. Edward’s, our priests are available to administer this sacrament in homes, hospitals, or during communal celebrations, bringing the hope and love of Christ to those who need it most.
If you, or a loved one, is sick, confined to the home, or in the hospital, please contact the Pastoral Care office at (518) 371-7372 x224. St. Edward's provides home and hospital visits to bring Holy Communion and administer the Anointing of the Sick.
Please let us know if you would like us to add you, or your loved one, to our prayer chain by clicking here or contacting the pastoral care office.
If you would like meals provided through our EMBRACE ministry you can also contact Mary Jo Brue at (518) 371-7372 x223.
Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is the means by which men are called and consecrated to serve the Church as deacons, priests, or bishops, continuing the mission of Christ the Good Shepherd. Through the laying on of hands and the power of the Holy Spirit, those ordained are configured to Christ in a unique way, entrusted with preaching the Gospel, celebrating the sacraments, and guiding the faithful. Holy Orders is a profound response to God’s call, rooted in a life of prayer, service, and sacrificial love. At St. Edward’s, we pray for and support vocations, encouraging young men to listen for God’s call and consider a life dedicated to the Church and her people.
For more information, contact:
Fr. Dan