Sacraments

Sacraments are a visible sign of invisible grace, a physical gift given to us.

Religious Education 

Saint John the Baptist Ferntree Gully Parish provides a Religious Education Program and Sacrament preparation to Catholic children who do not attend Catholic schools. The classes are held after school, one day a week, in the Parish Community Centre.  We welcome enquiries from families who would like to join these classes.

First Reconciliation / Penance

St John the Baptist Parish offers the opportunity for children to receive their First Reconciliation.  The sacrament of First Reconciliation is offered to all baptised Catholics who are in grade 3 or higher class levels. Parents of children wanting to make their first reconciliation are asked to contact the parish office (9758 1029) or please register with the form below and forward to  [email protected] 

Program for 2026 will begin in Term 1 2026. Application Form link below. 

 RE Application 2026_StJohntheBaptist

First Eucharist / Holy Communion

St John the Baptist Parish offers the opportunity for children to receive their first Eucharist every alternative year. Parents of children wanting to make their first Eucharist are asked to contact the parish office (9758 1029) to register and receive information about when the after-school preparation classes will take place.

Confirmation

St John the Baptist Parish offers the opportunity for children to make their confirmation every alternative year. Parents of children wanting to make their confirmation are asked to contact the parish office (9758 1029) to register and receive information about when the after-school preparation classes will take place. 

RCIA – Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

If you would like to learn more about the Catholic faith in an informal non- confrontational manner the you can contact our parish office (9758 1029) to find out when the next RCIA programme will run.  The format is a get together in a casual atmosphere to discuss what it means to be Catholic and explore the Catholic faith. This may lead to you becoming a Catholic or it may be a way for you to learn more without any commitment also. 

Marriage

Weddings are by appointment and six months’ notice is required.  They may be held on a Saturday or weekday but not a Sunday.  Please contact the parish office (9758 1029) for more information.

Anointing of the sick

This sacrament is offered to those who are sick. The patient is prayed over and anointed with oil. Please contact Fr Thomas (9758 1029) if you are requesting this sacrament for yourself or someone else.

Holy Orders

The sacrament where someone becomes a Deacon, Priest or Bishop.  If you are interested in joining the religious life then please contact Fr Thomas (9758 1029) to have a chat.