Baptism of infants is normally celebrated on the fourth Sunday of each month after the 11:15 a.m. Mass. Parents are to contact the parish office to arrange for the necessary baptismal preparation. The Church requires at least one parent and one godparent be active, participating Catholics who will indicate the child will be supported and raised in the Catholic faith.

Preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eurcharist is normally part of the curriculum for second graders and Confirmation for eighth graders who attend St. James School and public school students who go through our Religious Education Progam. A special sacramental program is usually set up for children of different age levels who have not yet received the Sacraments of Initiation.

Friday
8:45-9:45 a.m.

Saturday
2:45-3:30 p.m.

By appointment
A personal time for reconciliation is available. Please call the church office at 815-962-1214 to schedule an appointment

This Sacrament is primarily intended for any who suffer from serious or chronic physical or emotional illness or who struggle with the infirmities of age. One need not be in danger of death nor does the Church anoint one who has already died. Those scheduled for surgery or a serious hospital stay may wish to request this Sacrament prior to entering the hospital.

St. James has established a policy that all couples wishing to celebrate the Sacrament of Marriage notify the parish at least six months prior to their proposed wedding date. This will allow sufficient time for the couple to complete the required FOCCUS survey, attend one of the pre-marriage programs and to prepare a proper celebration of the Sacrament. Only after the process has begun will the date be entered as definite in the Church calendar. The Church presumes that at least one partner in the marriage is a practicing Catholic.

Often individuals are not fully participating in the Sacramental life of the Church because of divorce and remarriage. Those in difficult situations are welcome to worship with us. If you are civilly divorced and have questions regarding your previous marriage, please call the parish office at 815-962-1214 to set up an appointment to discuss your status.