In our Catholic tradition the Mass is at the Centre of our spiritual lives. At Mass we are nourished by the Word of God and by the Body and Blood of Christ whom we can receive in Holy Communion.
Because of its importance, many months are set aside for the preparation of children for First Holy Communion.
In September of each year, children from Year 3 at school, begin their journey of preparation with a team of Leaders/Catechists. They meet in small groups on specified Saturday mornings using the “Gold Book”.
Part of each session is the First Communion Mass the next day for children and their parents. Our parish priest is very involved in the whole programme and links up all sessions with the Mass.
Children who are attending non-Catholic Schools can also attend classes, but are expected to have attended special preparatory classes on Saturday mornings, for at least one year prior to starting First Communion classes.
This foundation course is vital, so that the child will have an understanding of the background knowledge of the Christian faith. These preparatory classes take place from 10am to 11noon every Saturday except during school holidays, including half-term but please confirm these timings with the Parish Office.
Registration for the 2023-2024 Programme is now open.
If your child is in Primary School Year 3 (or above) and you would like them to be prepared to receive First Holy Communion in May 2024, please:
- fill in the Application Form;
- attach a photo of the child;
- provide a copy of the child’s baptism certificate (if not baptised in SJV);
- submit it to the Parish Office by end of September 2023.
Children who are in non-Catholic schools are required to attend supplement Religious Education classes, which will begin in October.
We will contact you as soon as we have a starting date for the programme.