Baptism
Baptism is the foundation of Christian life, the entrance to life in the Spirit and the gateway to the other Sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from original sin, incorporated into the Church and called to share in her mission.
Infants and young children: celebrated for parish families; parents attend a preparation session before a date is arranged.
School-age children: preparation may be arranged through the parish’s faith formation programme.
Adults: preparation is arranged through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Please contact the parish office.
Catechism reference: 1213
Confession
In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Church continues Christ’s ministry of forgiveness, healing and reconciliation through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Confession is available on weekdays after Mass or by appointment. Please telephone the parish office to arrange a time.
Catechism reference: 1442
Holy Communion
The Eucharist has its origin in the Last Supper, when Jesus instituted the sacrifice of his Body and Blood as the memorial of his death and Resurrection. In the Eucharist the Church is nourished by Christ and strengthened in unity and charity.
Children commonly prepare for First Holy Communion around ages seven or eight through a sacramental preparation programme alongside their religious education. Adults seeking initiation into Holy Communion should contact the parish office.
Catechism references: 1323, 1327
Confirmation
In Confirmation, the baptised are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and strengthened for service to the Body of Christ. The sacrament deepens baptismal life and the call to witness to Christ in family, community and the wider world.
Young people normally celebrate Confirmation from Year 7 (ages 11–12) or above after completing a sacramental preparation programme.
Matrimony
The Sacrament of Matrimony signifies the union of Christ and the Church. Its grace strengthens the love and unity of husband and wife and sanctifies their life together.
Engaged couples take part in marriage preparation, with opportunities to reflect on the meaning of marriage, faith, sexuality and sacramental married life. Please contact the parish office for details.
Catechism reference: 1661
Anointing of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick gives special grace to those experiencing serious illness or the frailty of old age. Through the ministry of the priest, the sick person is commended to Christ and receives the Holy Spirit’s gifts of peace, courage and spiritual healing.
There is no need to wait until the point of death. Catholics facing serious illness, advanced age or a hospital admission are encouraged to contact the parish office to arrange the sacrament.
Catechism references: 1499, 1511, 1513
Holy Orders
Through Holy Orders, Christ calls ordained ministers to serve and shepherd his people. The sacrament has three degrees: deacons, priests and bishops.
Deacons are ordained for service through the ministry of the Word, Divine Worship and charity. Priests share in the bishop’s ministry as co-workers in pastoral service. Bishops receive the fullness of Holy Orders and, as successors of the Apostles, serve the particular Church entrusted to them.
Men discerning a vocation to priesthood can contact the Diocese of Northampton Vocations Office.
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