Baptism
Through baptism, a person is received into the Christian community. As a visible sign, it points to the deep bond between God and the one being baptized. At the same time, the gathered congregation expresses its commitment to accompany the baptized on their journey through life and to stand by them in matters of faith.
Children and adults can be baptized in our parish. Please contact Father Patrick Ledergerber.
First Communion
In our parish, children are prepared for their First Holy Communion in the third grade. The journey begins each autumn and reaches its highlight the following spring on White Sunday (Pentecost). Along the way, the children engage more deeply with the story of salvation through Jesus and discover the meaning of sharing the meal with him and with all people.
Catholic children who attend religion classes are automatically invited to take part in the First Communion journey.
Sacrament of penance and reconciliation
As human beings, we repeatedly find ourselves in situations where we neglect our Christian ideals—sometimes consciously, sometimes unconsciously. At times, through our thoughts, words, and actions, we knowingly cause harm to ourselves and to others.
Reconciliation is part of everyday life. Almost daily we are called to admit mistakes, to forgive one another, or to find a way for difficult matters to come to a good and peaceful conclusion.
Confession and reconciliation talks are offered regularly in our parish. Times for confession can be found on the second page of the parish bulletin.
First Communion Journey:
As part of the First Communion journey, the reconciliation conversation takes place in the openess of the church.
Introduction to the Sacrament of Reconciliation:
In our parish, children are specially prepared for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the fourth grade as part of their regular religious education.
Reconciliation path:
Every two years, children in the fourth and fifth grades are invited to take part in the Reconciliation Path. Together with a trusted companion, they walk through a series of stations set up in the monastery church and surrounding monastery rooms. Each station is designed around a different theme, encouraging reflection on life and everyday experiences: faith in God and our relationship with Him, family life, self-awareness, and friendships.
At the end of the Reconciliation Path, the children meet with Father Patrick Ledergerber for the sacrament of confession. This conversation focuses not only on forgiveness but also on God’s support and encouragement.
Parents are introduced to their role as companions during an informational evening.
Contact: For questions regarding the Reconciliation Path, please reach out to religion teacher Rita Lussi.
Confirmation
Confirmation is a sacrament of the Catholic Church. The term “Firmung” comes from the Latin word “confirmatio”, meaning confirmation or strengthening.
When young people receive the sacrament of Confirmation, they take on responsibility for their own faith. They affirm the baptismal promises once made on their behalf by their parents and godparents. From a theological perspective, Confirmation represents the completion and strengthening of Baptism.
The confirmation path
In Engelberg the preparation for Confirmation is offered in the third year of secondary school or the first year of the upper school at the Stiftsschule
Pupils from outside the school are invited to take part in this program.
There is also the option of working with their home parish for preparation.
Events:
- •Information event for parents and young people in September
- •Launch event together with the Protestant Reformed Church in November
- •Course evenings, service to the community, youth services between December and May
- •Preparation of the confirmation service with singing and service rehearsals
- •Joint celebration of confirmation at Pentecost in the monastery and parish church
- •A voluntary, themed event after confirmation
Marriage
Marriage is the sacrament in which the bride and groom, with God’s blessing, commit themselves to a lifelong covenant. Careful preparation for this important step is an essential foundation.
An initial meeting with the parish priest helps clarify key questions, such as:
- Is marriage possible between partners of different Christian denominations or religions?
- Do we need to marry at the civil registry office before having a church wedding?
- In which churches or chapels in Engelberg can a wedding take place?
After clarifying these first questions, the planning of the church wedding follows. We are happy to support you in organizing and celebrating this special day.
Anointing of the sick
The sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick offers strength and confidence in times of illness or suffering. It may be received more than once. In difficult and burdensome situations, people need special care and effective signs of God’s blessing.
Before a major surgery, at the onset of a serious illness, in times of psychological distress, or in old age—the Anointing of the Sick creates community and offers symbolic closeness and comfort.
If you would like to request this sacrament for yourself or someone else, please contact our parish priest, Patrick Ledergerber.
Funerals
A funeral is a dignified farewell to a loved one. This ceremony allows family and friends to share their grief and to remember cherished moments.
It is not only a final goodbye, but also a sign of hope in the life to come.
In our parish, we accompany you with care and compassion during this difficult time and offer support in planning the funeral service.
Please contact our parish priest, Patrick Ledergerber.