The parish Sacramental Programme in preparation for First Holy Communion is geared to children in Year 3 in Primary School (though older children who have missed the programme when they were in Year 3 are still welcome to join). Until a few years ago this had been combined with preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, but this is no longer the case and Confirmation is now being prepared separately at a slightly older age.
This First Communion programme, (which will also bring the children to the Sacrament of First Reconciliation), begins with meetings for parents, but the most important aspect is not special meetings, events or courses for the children - it is simply about growing in their sense of belonging to the church family. Most of the preparation will be covered in the context of Sunday Mass (or Saturday evening if this is easier). After all, when the children receive Holy Communion for the first time, they are, in effect, saying "Now I'm fully a part of this community, this Family of God!" What could mean more now, than simply growing accustomed to regular involvement in the Mass and gaining that sense, with family and friends in prayer and worship, that they really do belong?
NEW PROGRAMME for 2025-26
- Please find some notes HERE from our Catechists, outlining the practical matters discussed at the introductory meetings. Thank you!
- Meetings took place on Tuesday 3rd and Thursday 5th March preparing the children for the Sacrament of First Reconciliation, and looking forward to the First Holy Communion days. The handout can be viewed and downloaded HERE.
- Please understand that allocation of dates for First Holy Communion remains dependent upon engagement with the programme. Thank you for all your support.
PROGRAMME for 2024-25
All our First Holy Communion Masses were completed in the summer. We thank all the families for their support along the way!
The presentation of certificates is now taking place at Masses, as announced. Alternative arrangements will be made after half-term for those families who were unable to attend either their scheduled presentation or the catch-up event. (We appreciate that for those children not in our schools, there has only been one opportunity offered).
AND FINALLY...
Please continue to keep all the children and their families in your prayers.