However You Got Here, We're Glad You Did
Whether you've worshiped at St. Bernadette your whole life, just moved to Panama City Beach, or you're stepping into a Catholic church for the very first time — there's a place for you here.
Baptism "transcends all the natural or human limits of nations, cultures, races, and sexes" — Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1267
Three Ways to Get Connected
There's no single "right" first step. Pick whichever feels natural, and the rest tends to follow.
Come to Mass
No registration required, no dress code to worry about, and no one will put you on the spot. Just come as you are — see our Mass times and what to expect below.
See Mass TimesRegister with the Parish
Registering helps our office reach you about events, faith formation, and sacraments, and it's required for things like godparent letters and religious ed enrollment.
Register NowExplore the Faith
New to Catholicism, or thinking about becoming Catholic? Our OCIA process walks you through it — no pressure, no obligation, just conversation.
Learn About OCIA"Baptism incorporates us into the Church. From the baptismal fonts is born the one People of God of the New Covenant" — a family bigger, and more diverse, than any one parish.
Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1267
What to Expect at Mass
No surprises, we promise. Here's what a typical Sunday looks like.
When
Saturday Vigil at 6:00 pm, Sunday at 7:45 am & 10:00 am. Weekday Masses run Monday–Friday — see the full schedule on our home page.
What to Wear
Come as you are. Many dress up a little out of respect, but no one will turn you away for jeans — we're glad you came at all.
Kids Welcome
Wiggling, whispering, and the occasional cry are all normal. There's no cry room requirement — we'd rather have your family here.
Parking & Seating
Park in the main lot off Moylan Rd. Sit anywhere — there's no "regulars only" section, though you may notice some familiar faces in familiar pews.
Communion
Communion is reserved for baptized, practicing Catholics. If you're not receiving, you're welcome to come forward with arms crossed over your chest for a blessing.
After Mass
Stick around — there's usually a friendly face by the doors, and it's the easiest time to ask a question or introduce yourself.
Register with the Parish
Registering takes about two minutes and lets our office know you're here. It's also the first step for enrolling kids in Family Catechesis, requesting a sacrament, or being asked to serve as a godparent or sponsor.
Prefer paper? Registration forms are also available at the parish office, or from an usher before or after Mass.
Scan to open the registration form on your phone — handy for the bulletin, welcome table, or narthex board.
Parish Registration Form
Takes about 5 minutes. Opens in a new tab so you can fill it out at your own pace.
Open Registration Form →Curious About Becoming Catholic?
Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA)
If you've never been baptized, were baptized in another Christian tradition, or were baptized Catholic but never completed Confirmation or Eucharist, OCIA is a no-pressure way to explore the faith at your own pace — through conversation, questions, and community, not a test. Formerly known as RCIA, the process was renamed in 2021 to better reflect that becoming Catholic is an ongoing journey, not a single rite.
The Church restored "the catechumenate for adults, comprising several distinct steps" following the Second Vatican Council — Catechism of the Catholic Church, CCC 1230–1233
New Parishioner FAQ
Do I have to register to attend Mass?
No — Mass is open to everyone, registered or not. Registration just helps us stay in touch and is required for certain sacraments and forms.
I was baptized Catholic but haven't practiced in years. Where do I start?
Right where you are. Come to Mass, or call the office — there's no "getting caught up" required before you're welcome.
Can my kids receive Communion if they haven't had First Communion yet?
Not until they've completed First Communion preparation, but they're welcome to come up for a blessing with arms crossed, just like visitors.
I'm not Catholic — can I still come?
Absolutely. Many of our most active parishioners started out just visiting. Come whenever you'd like, no strings attached.