The Seven Sacraments of the Church

Baptism   Baptism is about belonging to Jesus and being part of his family, the Church.  Christian parents obviously want to share with their children all the benefits and graces they receive within the Church.  Parents of newborn children desiring Baptism for their children should, in the first instance, make an appointment to see the parish priest.  As part of the preparation for the celebration of the sacrament parents and where possible, Godparents, will be given the opportunity to explore the meaning of Baptism.  Children who are seven or over will be asked to take part, with their parents, in a longer period of preparation.

First Holy Communion   The First Holy Communion course runs during term-time between October and May for children in Year 3 and above, and their parents.  The children’s sessions are led by our First Holy Communion catechists and the parents’ by Fr Ciaran. Sessions are held in the Parish Centre.  If you would like your child to be prepared for First Holy Communion please contact the parish office.

Reconciliation   This sacrament is sometimes known as Confession or Penance.  It is the means given us by Jesus to restore us to friendship with God and with one another.   This sacrament is normally available as on the weekly Newsletter or at any reasonable time, on request.

Confirmation  When need arises we run a Confirmation programme between October and Eastertide.   Young people wishing to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation should contact the parish priest.

Marriage  Engaged couples looking towards celebrating the sacrament of Marriage should, in the first instance, contact the parish priest.  As least six months notice is required by Church law to ensure that proper preparation can take place.

Ordination   The Lord who cares always for his Church calls certain men to serve the Church as Bishops, Priests and Deacons.   Anyone who feels that they want to explore the possibility of such a vocation should speak to the parish priest who will put them in touch with the Diocesan Vocations team.  Although Bishops and Priests remain unmarried, married men may be ordained to the Diaconate.

Anointing of the Sick   This sacrament has traditionally been celebrated close to death but is in fact a sacrament of healing.   It is normal to receive the strengthening graces of this sacrament when facing a prolonged period of illness or surgery.  Please just ask the parish priest.

Last Rites    As we approach death it understandable and right that we should want to be fortified by the rites of the Church.  Normally the Last Rites would comprise Confession, Anointing and Holy Communion (Viaticum).    A priest will always be ready, whenever possible, to visit at times like this.   Please do not hesitate to ask.

Becoming a Catholic through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is a process in which adults are initiated in the Catholic faith.  The process involves sharing our faith in a group setting.  When there are enquirers seeking to find out more about our faith a programme will begin in the autumn.  In the New Year those wishing to go further will commit themselves as catechumens (those not already baptised) or candidates (those baptised in other Christian traditions but wishing to come into full communion with the Catholic Church).  This will lead to Easter, the day when adult initiation has taken place from the very earlist days of the Church.  Becoming a Catholic is a step of enormous importance and signifies a deep commitment – both to Christ and to his Church.  Hence the Church lays great stress on preparing her candidates for reception with as much care and prayerful attention as she can.

If you need help or advice about aspects of the Catholic faith, or if you are seeking to become a Catholic, we encourage you to contact your parish priest.