Sacraments

Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

In Year 3, the children receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and The Eucharist.

The children make their first Confession during the season of Lent, and take part in a special service of Reconciliation where they receive the Sacrament for the first time. In class beforehand, the children will have been learning about Reconciliation in RE and will have been learning about the importance of forgiveness.

Although the children are prepared in Year 3, we build on the knowledge and understanding gained in the earlier years as well as the child’s faith from home.

Children are prepared through RE lessons in school, where different aspects of The Eucharist are taught- for example, the importance of putting other first, making sacrifices, and being a good disciple.

In preparation for First Holy Communion, children are encouraged to attend Mass each Sunday and there are two special Commitment Masses in the Spring term, where the children have to opportunity to show their commitment to their faith. During these masses; children take responsibility for leading the mass as a class, reading the Liturgy of the Word, leading the parish in song and presenting the offertory.

The children make their First Holy Communion in the Summer Term. All children in Year 3 are expected to attend, with the non-Catholic children supporting their peers. Following the receiving of the Eucharist, the children are ready to present themselves to the parish and prepare and lead the Thank you Mass. They then partake in all parts of the liturgy in future class, parish and whole school masses.

Children are prepared through RE lessons in school, where different aspects of The Eucharist are taught- for example, the importance of putting other first, making sacrifices, and being a good disciple. In preparation for First Holy Communion, children are encouraged to attend Mass each Sunday and there are two special Commitment Masses in the Spring term, where the children take responsibility for the Mass readings.

Confirmation

During their final year at St. Gerard’s School, the children are prepared for and receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

This begins with a meeting for parents with the Headteacher and their class teacher, where they are given the opportunity to find out more about the Sacrament itself and then to discuss the programme which their children will follow.

This is followed by a Mass of commitment which is prepared for and led by the children along with the Parish community. This shows that both parents and Confirmandi are committed to take on the responsibilities placed before them.

The children are prepared following a school based programme and have work to continue at home. The programme is based on the Curriculum Strategy used in the Archdiocese of Birmingham. As part of their work, children prepare a project on a Saint of their choice. They are encouraged to select the name of a Saint who has inspired them in some way. A sponsor is also chosen and has the role of supporting the child in their spiritual life.

Before receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, the children spend time with Father and the Bishop, ensuring that they are fully prepared and ready to receive the Sacrament. The evening itself is a great celebration with children, parents, clergy, staff and members of the Parish. Let us remember them all in our prayers.