The Sacred Constitution on the Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium of the Second Vatican Council says that, "The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify men, to build up the body of Christ, and, finally, to give worship to God; because they are signs they also instruct. They not only presuppose faith, but by words and objects they also nourish, strengthen, and express it; that is why they are called "sacraments of faith." They do indeed impart grace, but, in addition, the very act of celebrating them most effectively disposes the faithful to receive this grace in a fruitful manner, to worship God duly, and to practice charity" (S.C. 59). At STM, our celebration and reception of the sacraments is the core of our parish's life.
Baptism
The parents, as registered parishioners of Saint Thomas More Church may make arrangements for the Baptism of their child by contacting the parish office. Typically, Baptisms are celebrated on the Second Sunday of the month at 1:30 PM in the Church. Preparation for the sacramental liturgy includes the participation in a Class for first-time parents led by our Baptismal team.
Eucharist
The Eucharistic Liturgy, the Holy Sacrifice of Mass is celebrated 7 days/week at Saint Thomas More. The Mass Schedule is as follows:
Saturday: 5PM (Vigil Mass) Sunday: 8 AM | 10 AM | 12 PM (and 7 PM on 4th Sundays "Youth Mass" : except July - August) Monday-Saturday: 9 AM Holy Days of Obligation: * 9 AM | 12:10 PM | 7 PM * * Please see News or our Bulletin for the most current schedule *
Reconciliation
Confessions are heard every Saturday from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM in the Church, or by appointment with the Priests. Penance Services are scheduled during the Seasons of Advent and Lent in anticipation of Christmas and Easter. Click here for the Church's teaching on the Sacrament of Reconciliation, availability, and helpful resources for making a good confession. (Scroll down to the middle of the webpage after you click on the link.)
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation celebrated for the youth of our parish community enrolled in our Religious Education Program is coordinated by the CCD Office. For them, the Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated by our Archbishop or an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Newark during the Mass on a Saturday typically in the month of November.
Adults wishing to be Confirmed and fully initiated into the Church should contact the Parish Office to inquire about our RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) program.
Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick is celebrated for those who are seriously-ill and suffering by appointment. Contact the Parish Office to make arrangements with our Priests. Please do keep the Rectory informed of any home-bound or hospitalized parishioners so we can minister Christ's presence and peace through the Eucharist and the other sacraments during these difficult times.
Marriage / Holy Matrimony
The Sacrament of Marriage should be celebrated in the parish where either the bride or groom belong. Deep discernment and careful consideration for the Sacrament is necessary, so arrangements should be made at least one year in advance with the Parish to begin the necessary preparations. Contact the Parish Office to make arrangements.
Holy Orders
It is the responsibility of all Catholics to pray for vocations to the Diocesan Priesthood and Religious Life. Not all Catholics are called by God to these vocations, but everyone is capable of praying for others to answer the calls they have received. If you are interested in becoming a Priest or Deacon, speak with one of our parish priests or our seminarian. Those considering the vocation and all of the faithful are encouraged to visit the Archdiocese of Newark Vocation's Office website: www.NewarkPriest.com.