Frequently Asked Questions


Frequently Asked Questions





Altar inside the Church





  • What time is Mass?

    You can find our Mass Schedule on our HOME page, or you can click HERE.

  • When/Where is confession?

    Confession/Reconciliation  is available :

    • After Daily Mass (chapel)  
    •  Saturday prior to Vigil Mass                          from 3-4pm (church).  The confessionals are located near the  Statue of Mary  
    • By Appointment.  Please call us at 863-294-3144 to schedule a date/time.  
  • How Do I Make A Good Confession?

     How To Make A Good Confession


     


    PREPARATION:


     Before going to confession, take some time to prepare  (Examination of Conscience). Begin with prayer and reflect on your life since your last confession. How have you—in your thoughts, words, and actions— neglected to live Christ’s commands to “love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind,” and to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mt 22:37, 39)? As a help with this “examination of conscience,” you might review the Ten Commandments or the Beatitudes (Ex 20:2-17; Dt 5:6-21; Mt 5:3-10; or Lk 6:20-26). 




    GREETING: 


    The priest will welcome you; he may say a short blessing or read a Scripture passage. 




    THE SIGN OF THE CROSS: 


    Together, you and the priest will make the Sign of the Cross.  You may then begin your confession with these or similar words: “Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. It has been  [give days, months, or years] since my last confession.”




    CONFESSION: 


    Confess all your sins to the priest. If you are unsure what to say, ask the priest for help. When you are finished, conclude with these or similar words: 


    "Father, I am sorry for these and all my sins.”




    PENANCE:.


    The priest will propose an act of penance. The penance might be prayer, a work of mercy, or an act of charity. He might also counsel you on how to better live a Christian life.




    ACT OF CONTRITION:


    After the priest has conferred your penance, pray an Act of Contrition, expressing sorrow for your sins and resolving to sin no more.


    A suggested Act of Contrition is: 


    My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In His name, my God, have mercy.




    ABSOLUTION:


    The priest will extend his hands over your head and pronounce the Words of Absolution


    You respond, “Amen.”




     DISMISSAL:


    The priest will conclude the sacrament,  often saying, “Go in peace.” 

  • I'm Not Catholic. May I receive Communion?

    Generally, no, non-Catholics cannot receive communion in the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church reserves communion for those who are fully initiated members, meaning they are baptized Catholics, or have been received into the church through profession of faith. This practice stems from the belief that the Eucharist is the actual body, blood, soul, and divinity of Jesus Christ, and requires proper preparation and belief. 

  • Does St. Joseph's have a quinceañera Mass?

    St. Joseph's does not currently have a quinceañera Mass.  Families can arrange for a blessing by calling the office. 

    Other churches in our area offer quinceañera Mass. 

  • Where Is the food pantry located?

    The food pantry is located inside Catholic Charities.    You can find Catholic Charities located between the Family Life Center Building and the chapel.  

    The address is :  532 Avenue M NW.

    Pantry is open Monday - Friday from 9 am until 11 am.  

    You may also contact Catholic Charities for financial assistance by calling 863-299-7983.

    For more information, click HERE 

  • What Are Faith Formation Classes?

    Catholic faith formation classes are educational programs designed to deepen a person's understanding and practice of the Catholic faith. These classes, often referred to as religious education or catechesis, aim to nurture a relationship with God and equip individuals to live out their faith in daily life. They encompass various aspects, including learning about Catholic teachings, engaging in scripture study, participating in liturgical practices, and fostering a missionary spirit. 

    Here's a more detailed look at what faith formation classes entail:

    For Children:

    Age-appropriate learning:

    Faith formation classes for children cover a range of topics, from basic Catholic doctrines to preparing for sacraments like First Communion and Confirmation. 

    Parental involvement:

    The parents are the primary teachers of the faith, with classes often incorporating a home-based component.  Family prayer time, attending Mass as a family and leading by example are ways to teach/foster our faith in our children. 

    Sacramental preparation:

    Classes help children prepare for receiving sacraments like Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation. 

    Focus on community:

    Faith formation classes provide a space for children to connect with other young Catholics and learn together. 

    For Adults:

    Deepening understanding:

    Adult faith formation aims to help adults grow in their faith, understanding the teachings of the Church, and engaging with Scripture. 

    Practical application:

    Classes explore how to live out the faith in various aspects of life, such as family life, relationships, and public service. 

    Ongoing learning:

    Faith formation is a lifelong process, and adults can participate in various programs like Bible studies, retreats, and workshops. 

    Connection to the Church:

    Adult faith formation programs often connect participants to the broader Catholic community and encourage active participation in the Church

  • How can I volunteer to be a part of the ministries at our church?

    Volunteers are the backbone of the church and we deeply appreciate our volunteers.


    For a list of ministries, please click HERE



  • Where are the restrooms located?

    The restrooms are located in the front of the church (Narthex). 

     Handicap facilites and baby changing facilities available. 

    We also have a water fountain outside the restrooms. 


    Additional restrooms are located in the Parish Center  (near the gift shop).

  • Where should I park?

    The gate to large parking is North of the Church on Hwy 17 with handicapped parking and ramp entry directly behind the parish center.

    Parking also available across Ave. M on the South side in the Chapel and Family Life Center lot.

  • What should I wear?

    We’re so glad you’re joining us!

    Casual summer wear is perfectly appropriate, though some still enjoy dressing in their “Sunday best”—both are welcome.


    You may also want to bring a light sweater, as the church can be a bit cool.

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