Sacramental Preparation

A Sacrament is an efficacious sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is given to us. Full and active participation in the sacramental life of the Church requires a period of preparation of both mind and heart to be receptive to the grace of new life in Christ.

Please contact the Parish Office for further information.

Baptism

Baptisms are normally celebrated on Saturday afternoons or on Sundays, either in the afternoon, late morning after the last Mass, or during Mass itself. Baptism should ideally take place a few weeks after a baby’s birth and the parents will be asked to attend preparation classes in order to fully understand the significance of this Sacrament.

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

First Holy Communion is celebrated every June for children who are in year 3 and upwards. The children also make their First Reconciliation during this time. Parents are notified of the registration date at Sunday Mass and via the Newsletter. The First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion preparation programme begins in January.

Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is usually celebrated during the Easter Season for young people in years 8 and 9. Registration is in November and preparation classes begin in February.

Marriage

Couples planning to get married should contact Father Gerard at least 6 months prior to the celebration to make arrangements. Those who have been married outside of the Catholic Church should contact Father Gerard who will help them get their marriage recognised by the Church.

Priesthood and Religious Life

Those who are thinking about priesthood or religious life and who would like more information should contact Father Gerard, who will be very happy to help and point them in the right direction.

Sacrament of the Sick

This is readily available for those suffering from a serious illness or preparing to go into hospital for major surgery, and for the elderly and infirm.