Sacramental Preparation

"Do this in remembrance of me."

(Luke 22:19)

Baptism

"Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments."

(Catechism of the Catholic Church 1213)

Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation, which welcomes a person into the Church. It is the first step in a lifelong faith journey.

For your child to enrol in the sacramental programme in Year 4, they must be baptised as Roman Catholic.

If your child is not yet baptised and you wish them to be, there is a simple procedure to follow:

• You will need to contact the Parish Office at St. Bede's Catholic Church and fill out the relevant forms.

• You will be required to attend a preparation session and a Mass of Welcome.

• You will then be given a date for your child's baptism.

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

"This is my body, which is given for you."

(Luke 22:19)

When children enter Year 4, they are invited to continue their sacramental journey through First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. The year unfolds as one full of grace as children learn at a deeper level the importance of forgiveness when they celebrate their First Confession and the wonder of receiving Jesus in Holy Communion.

Unlike Baptism, these sacraments are repeatable: they are received as often as needed or every time Mass is celebrated. Preparation is therefore extensive and takes place throughout the spring term within school or Church under the guidance of parish catechists. Families are contacted at the beginning of the spring term and it is then that parents/carers are able to request the sacraments for their child.

Key dates

Dates, times and locations will be confirmed by the parish in the spring term.