Baptism signifies our immersion in the Christian life and marks our spiritual rebirth in the Church. Read more >>
The Baptism Preparation Course is organised by the Parish for all parents who are planning to have a child baptised. The course consists of two (2) evening meetings which are run by a couple from the Parish. It also involves participating in two (2) Liturgical celebrations:
Naming of the child, Signing with the Cross and Anointing with the Oil of Catechumens at Sunday Mass; and
The Baptismal ceremony.
The programme is intended for both parents and there is always a good number of non-Catholics present. Some people find it more convenient to complete the course during the pregnancy, but babies are always welcome at the meetings, or our parish care group may provide baby sitters on request.
During the three sessions, participants:
Discuss Christian parenthood
Look at the significance of each aspect of the Sacrament of Baptism
Consider the nature of the commitment they are making as Christian parents
Look at the practical aspects of preparing for the Sacrament of Baptism
Many people find the course a good way of deepening their involvement in the Parish and of forming new friendships with people at the same stage in their family life.
Confirmation & First Holy Communion
Confirmation seals our Baptism and confirms our commitment both to the Church and to the work of Christ in the world.
Here at St Mary’s, we follow the diocesan directives for the celebration of the Sacraments of Initiation for those baptised as infants. That is to say, from 1996, Confirmation precedes First Holy Communion. These may take place at the same celebration. The children shall be of the age of discretion.
First Reconciliation must take place before First Eucharist. (It is a requirement that at least one parent must attend the adult sessions preceding commencement of these programmes.) Children aged 8 years will be invited to begin preparation for Reconciliation in November and to celebrate the sacrament during Advent. (Reconciliation is not a Sacrament of Initiation.)
Preparation for Confirmation and First Eucharist will begin in the following year in order that children may complete their Initiation during the great Easter/Pentecost period, the time most appropriate in the liturgical year.
We have expectations that parents, and hopefully families, will actively involve themselves in the children’s preparation and help to make the whole process a real expression of community welcoming and belonging. We have available in the parish office very readable material concerning the ‘new’ look to the Sacraments of Initiation. Please always feel free to come and ask for it. In fact, if you have any questions or concerns at all about our sacramental or educational programmes, we would like to hear them!
Adult Confirmation
For those who made First Holy Communion under the ‘old’ system. Preparation for ‘catch-up’ or Adult Confirmation will be offered from time to time. Please watch the parish newsletter or this website when these courses will be available.
Please contact the Parish Office for further information or to make an appointment.