The simplest definition of Sacrament could be expressed with words: visible sign of invisible grace (gift) from God. To live our life with God we rely on His support. Through the celebration of Sacraments God enters our life with His grace touching all the important moments of Christian life.
The aim of this program is to engage children and their families in preparation for receiving sacrament of Holy Communion and Confirmation through formation based in the local Parish with the support of Catholic School/Parish Religious Education Classes. It means:
Parish based
School/Parish RE class supported
Family orientated
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Parish Based
The Parish has a responsibility to coordinate the sacramental preparation between School/Parish RE classes and families through at least six weekend celebrations in the local Parish church involving the Parish community.
School supported
School/Parish Sacramental Coordinator will complete the sacramental preparation with children and prepare and organise the liturgy for the Sacramental Mass as well as a rehearsal for receiving the Sacrament in liaison with the Parish Priest.
Family orientated
Families are expected to attend all celebrations/preparations in the local Parish church. They are encouraged to pray with their children. They are encouraged to choose and invite a Faith Friend to their home for family prayer and reflection about our Christian life in the local Catholic community.
Faith Friend
A Faith Friend is a regularly practising Catholic member of the Parish community who is ready to visit the family of the child who is receiving the Sacrament, prays with them and leads the reflection/discussion about life in the local parish community. Preferably it should be a Godparent or Sponsor of the child. Those who are ready to become Faith Friends should be provided with formation to prepare them to lead the prayers with families.
Parish Sacramental Celebrations
First weekend
Enquiry
Sacramental information weekend and distribution of enrolment forms
Second weekend
Rite of Commitment
During this liturgy, children will make a commitment to their preparation program and ask for blessings and prayers of their parents and parish community
Third weekend
Parent’s Education
A short workshop for parents and children after Masses to help you with your preparation. Practical points before Sacramental celebrations
Fourth weekend
Rite of Election
Children to be called by name and presented to the community
Fifth weekend
Celebration of the Sacrament
Celebration of your child’s first Holy Communion or Confirmation
Sixth weekend
Commissioning of Children
Blessing and commissioning of children to go out and live the life with Christ