The Latin word sacramentum means “a sign of the sacred.” The seven sacraments are external signs, communicated through ritual, that bestow grace, that is, the life of God.
Baptism
The origin and foundation of Christian Baptism is Jesus Christ. Before beginning His public ministry, Jesus humbly entered the waters of the Jordan and received baptism from John the Baptist. Though He was without sin, He chose to be baptized to show His closeness to us and to reconcile humanity to the Father. In doing so, He sanctified the waters and opened the way for all people to share in new life with God.
Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and welcomed into the life of grace. The Holy Spirit calls us to holiness, inviting us to walk in the light of Christ, trust in His loving guidance, and grow each day in faith. Baptism is a joyful beginning—an embrace of God’s promise and a welcome into the family of the Church.
At St. Cecilia Church, Baptisms are celebrated on Sundays following the 11:00 AM Mass. Other times are available by appointment with the Pastor’s permission.
Parents must be active, registered parishioners and are asked to attend one Baptism preparation class. These classes are offered for new parents and newly registered parishioners and provide a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the great gift of Baptism—the moment a child is welcomed into the family of God and the life of the Church. Baptism is a joyful and sacred beginning, and we are honored to walk with families as they prepare for this special sacrament. To register or for more information, please contact the parish office. Baptismal request forms are available at the Church Office.
Contact the Church Office
859.363.4311 | stcsecretary@stcindependence.org
For more information on the Sacrament of Baptism, click here.
Reconciliation
The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Confession) is a beautiful opportunity to experience God’s mercy, healing, and forgiveness. Reconciliation is offered every Saturday from 3:00–3:30 PM, and thirty minutes before Sunday Masses. During special liturgical seasons, additional opportunities are available. Appointments may also be scheduled by calling 859-363-4311.
Preparation for First Reconciliation is coordinated through our Director of Religious Education. Children are asked to complete one full year of religious instruction prior to the year in which they will celebrate the Sacraments, helping them grow in understanding of God’s love and mercy. We look forward to walking with families as they prepare for this important step in their faith journey.
Contact the Director of Religious Education
859.363.4311 | DLemma@stcindependence.org
Eucharist
The Most Holy Eucharist is the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ and is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. Through the Eucharist, we are united more deeply with Christ and with one another as members of His Church. Receiving the Eucharist nourishes our souls, strengthens our relationship with God, and invites us to live as faithful disciples.
Preparation for First Holy Communion at St. Cecilia Parish is coordinated through our Director of Religious Education. Children are asked to complete one full year of religious instruction—either through our Catholic school or the Parish School of Religion (PSR)—prior to the year in which they will celebrate this special Sacrament.
This time of preparation helps children grow in faith, understand the gift of God’s love, and develop hearts ready to receive Jesus with joy. We look forward to walking alongside our families as children prepare to encounter Christ in this sacred and life-giving Sacrament for the first time.
Contact the Director of Religious Education
859.363.4311 | DLemma@stcindependence.org
Our Parish Priest is happy to bring Holy Communion and offer the Sacrament of Reconciliation to those who are sick or homebound. Please call the parish office to arrange a visit, so we can ensure that everyone in our parish family can remain close to Christ, even when they are unable to attend Holy Mass.
Contact the Church Office
859.363.4311 | stcsecretary@stcindependence.org
Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is a sacred moment in which Catholics receive the gift of the Holy Spirit in a special way, strengthening their faith and empowering them to live as courageous witnesses of Christ in the world. Through Confirmation, young people and adults are equipped to embrace their role as active members of the Church and to deepen their relationship with God, fully participating in the life of the Church.
Preparation for Confirmation at St. Cecilia Parish is coordinated through our Director of Religious Education. Children are asked to complete one full year of religious instruction—either through our Catholic schools or the Parish School of Religion (PSR)—prior to the year in which they will celebrate this Sacrament.
For adults who have not yet been confirmed, OCIA/RCIA (Order of Christian Initiation for Adults/ Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) offers a faith-filled journey to preparation and reception of the Sacrament. This process helps adults deepen their understanding of Catholic teaching, experience the support of a faith community, and grow in the grace of the Holy Spirit. Adults interested in receiving Confirmation through OCIA/RCIA are encouraged to contact the church office for more information and guidance.
We look forward to walking with families and adult candidates as they prepare to receive this special Sacrament of grace, empowerment, and commitment to Christ.
Contact the Director of Religious Education
859.363.4311 | DLemma@stcindependence.org
For more information on the Sacrament of Confirmation, click here.
Holy Orders
The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a sacred calling through which a man is ordained to serve Jesus Christ and His Church in a unique and special way. Those who receive Holy Orders—whether as deacons, priests, or bishops—are empowered to guide God’s people, administer the Sacraments, and proclaim the Gospel, helping the Church continue Christ’s mission on earth. This Sacrament is essential for the life of the Church, as it ensures that God’s people are nourished, guided, and led in faith.
Catholic men who feel called to explore the Priesthood or Diaconate are warmly encouraged to speak with our Pastor. We welcome the opportunity to walk alongside those discerning God’s call and support them on this sacred journey.
Contact the Pastor
859.363.4311 | hsettle@stcindependence.org
Holy Matrimony
The Sacrament of Marriage is a sacred covenant in which a man and a woman are called to love and serve each other faithfully for life, reflecting Christ’s love for His Church. Through this Sacrament, spouses receive God’s grace to grow in mutual love, forgiveness, and holiness, and to build a family rooted in faith. Marriage is not only a personal commitment but also a participation in God’s plan for love and life in the world.
To be married at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, at least one party must be a registered and active parishioner. Couples are invited to meet with the Pastor to discuss marriage preparation, a process designed to help them grow in understanding of this sacred vocation and strengthen their future life together. Please contact the Church Office at least six months in advance to reserve the church and discuss available times. We look forward to helping couples celebrate their love in a faith-filled and joyful way, surrounded by the support of our parish community.
Contact the Church Office
859.363.4311 | stcsecretary@stcindependence.org
The Sacred Music Director, Jefimija “Mia” Zlatanovic, is available to help plan your ceremony music.
Contact Music Ministry
859.363.4311 | 859.907.0626 | pmason@stcindependence.org
Anointing of the Sick
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is a sacred gift through which God offers healing, comfort, and strength to those who are seriously ill, facing major surgery, or nearing the end of life. Through this Sacrament, the Holy Spirit brings peace, courage, and spiritual renewal, uniting the sick person more closely with Christ in His suffering. It is a powerful reminder of God’s abiding love and care for each of His children, offering both physical and spiritual support in times of need.
Also known as Extreme Unction or Last Rites when combined with Confession and the Holy Eucharist (Viaticum), this Sacrament provides grace, healing, and preparation for eternal life. It is a sacrament of compassion and hope, administered to help the faithful experience God’s presence and strength in moments of illness or approaching death.
We invite you to reach out to the parish office to schedule your appointment.
Contact the Parish Office
859.363.4311 | stcsecretary@stcindependence.org