Sacraments
The Sacraments
At St. Mary’s, we are able to receive three Sacraments:
The Sacrament of Reconciliation - Year 3
First Holy Communion - Year 3
Confirmation - Year 6
Our school prides itself on strong links between the parish, school and home. This means that the preparation for these sacraments remains very strong.
Parents are invited to attend workshops with their child, in order to be fully involved in the preparation for the Sacraments.
Reconciliation
The sacrament of Reconciliation is received by baptised Catholic children towards the end of Year 3.
All children in Year 3 are included in the celebration of the sacrament and our inclusive ethos ensures that those children who are not baptised Catholics are enabled to participate as fully as possible in supporting their classmates during the programme.
Year 3 take another step along their Faith Journey, by receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation, a chance to say sorry to God for the things they have done that have hurt God, others and themselves. When God created man, in his image and likeness, he knew we would make wrong choices so he gave us the gift of Reconciliation so that we have the opportunity to put our wrongs, right and grow closer, to God.
Fr. Paul visits school to hear the children's first confessions.
Holy Communion
Children in Year 3 receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion.
The children prepare thoroughly for this Sacrament. The preparation takes place during R.E. lessons and there are also meetings between school, parents, and the parish priest.
The children receive Holy Communion after the Whitsun break.
This sacrament is widely celebrated by the entire school and parish community.
Confirmation
Children in Year 6 receive the sacrament of Confirmation. Their preparation includes a family workshop and a three day retreat to Alton Castle. Here they learn to grow in faith whilst considering the role of the Disciple.
Finding out more
If you do not attend St. Mary's but are interested in preparing for the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Communion, Confirmation or would like to know more about the Catholic Faith please contact Fr. Paul Lester on 0121 505 7927.
