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The Sacraments are Christ’s own gift that provide us with his help in this life, to journey to Him in the next.
The seven Sacraments touch all the stages of the Christian life. They manifest God’s love for us, from our birth, throughout our lives and all the way to the hour of our death.
BAPTISM
Baptism is the first Sacrament of initiation into the life of a Christian. Through the pouring of water and the Holy Spirit we are brought into the life of the Trinity, uniting us as one Mystical Body … the church.
If you have a child (aged 0-6yrs) you wish to be baptised click here to complete the Baptism Enquiry Form.
If you would like to be baptised yourself or have a query about baptism contact us here.
CONFIRMATION
In the Sacrament of Confirmation we are given a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit and are given the gifts of wisdom, knowledge, right judgment, understanding, courage, piety and fear of the Lord.
Within our Diocese the Sacrament of Confirmation is usually administered by the Archbishop in the month of June. Confirmation preparation courses for our Young People usually begin the Autumn, with registration taking place in September.
HOLY COMMUNION
In Holy Communion, Jesus comes to us in an incredibly real and intimate way. First Holy Communion Preparation takes place within the parish through our volunteer catechists. First Holy Communion classes are for children in school year 3 and above. Parents are required to attend a number of the classes.
Registration for First Holy Communion in 2022 has now closed. Please check back in the summer about the 2023 programme.
RECONCILIATION (CONFESSION)
In this great Sacrament of healing, Jesus forgives our sins and gives us His help to be truly free. The Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) is presently celebrated following Covid-19 regulations at St. Mary’s 12:00-1:00pm every Saturday. Alternatively you can call or email at any time to make an appointment. Contact us here.
ANOINTING OF THE SICK
In this Sacrament spiritual and physical strength to pass through the suffering of illness. It is available to anyone who is sick and can be administered at home or in hospital. If you are aware of any parishioner who is unable to get to Church or is in hospital please let us know so that they can be visited and receive Holy Communion. Either contact us here or complete a sick request form.
If you or a loved one is seriously sick contact us via the emergency sick number 07805 696474 and a priest will be with you ASAP.
MARRIAGE
In the Sacrament of Marriage a man and woman are united by a special bond that the two become one of mind and heart. It is a lifelong commitment of love. Our Information for Couples Preparing for Marriage leaflet outlines what you will need to do in terms of preparation. Whether you are planning to marry within the parish or elsewhere (either UK or abroad) you will need to complete the online Marriage Enquiry Form available via this link.
Twelve months notice is required for marriage within one of our worshipping communities. Six months notice is required if the marriage is to take place abroad.
Holy Orders
The Sacrament through which the Church ordains deacons, priests and bishops. If you feel called to the diaconate or priestly life check out the diocesan vocations website or make contact with one of the priests for an informal chat.
Coming to the Sacraments (age 8yrs and over)
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF CHILDREN (RCIC)
Children aged 7 – 18yrs are considered to have passed the age of reason and the decision of receiving the Sacraments must be their choice (with support of their parents if necessary). To enable the children to understand what they are asking for they take part in the RCIC classes. If you would like to find out more about this programme please contact us here.
RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS (RCIA)
Adults (18yrs or over) who are considering becoming a member of the Catholic Church are invited to take part in the RCIA programme to discover more about the Catholic Faith. For more information contact the parish office or complete the online enquiry form. We’d love to hear your story.
An explanation of the Sacraments
