Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit (vitae spiritualis ianua), and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1213
In the acrament of Confirmation, the baptized are sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit first received at Baptism. This anointing deepens our relationship with God, unites us more firmly to Christ, increases those gifts of the Holy Spirit, strengthens our bond to the Church, and gives special strength to bear witness to the Faith that we have received.
"I Am the Living Bread which came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this Bread, he will live forever; and the Bread which I shall give for the life of the world is My Flesh."
– John 6:51
The Eucharist – “the source and summit of the Christian life” – is the culmination of both God’s action of sanctifying the world in Christ and worship offered to Christ all given for us so that we might share in his abundant and eternal life.
Jesus Christ calls each of us to His altar to partake in His divine life. Reception of the Most Blessed Sacrament unites us more closely to Him while also uniting us with the Mystical Body, the Church.
"Those who approach the sacrament of Penance obtain pardon from God’s mercy for the offense committed against him and are at the same time reconciled with the Church."
The Church, in her wisdom, requires us to receive this sacrament at least once per year. At the Catechism states, through the confession of our sins, both venial and mortal, we "form our consciences, fight against evil tendencies, and let ourselves be healed by Christ" who calls out to us as the Great Physician. W
Whether you have been away from the Church or attend regularly we welcome you to receive this great grace again. Our priests hear confessions Monday through Saturday, and you can sign up for a time with them below.
By the sacred anointing of the sick and the prayer of her priests the whole Church commends the sick to the suffering and glorified Lord, asking that He may lighten their suffering and save them.
– Lumen Gentium, 11
You can learn more about the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick and Last Rites below.
Please call the parish office at (512) 476-6182 to request Anointing of the Sick.
The priests and staff of Saint Mary Cathedral offer our deepest condolences at the passing of your loved one. We are here to accompany you during this difficult time.
For more information about funerals at the Cathedral please contact the Parish Office at 512-476-6182.
And God blessed them, and God said to them: ‘Be fruitful and
multiply; fill the earth and subdue it.’
– Genesis 1:28
The vocation to Marriage has been written on our hearts and comes from God, our Creator. This covenant between a man and a woman points each of them towards a deeper love for the other, their family and community, and ultimately to God Himself.
You can learn more about the Sacrament of Marriage at the Cathedral through the link below.
As we are all called to mission through our Baptism, Holy Orders particularly consecrates those whom God calls to continue Christ’s apostolic ministry. It is a sacrament directed towards the service of God and salvation of others.
If you are interested in learning more about Holy Orders or religious life feel free to contact the Austin Vocations director below.