The Sacrament of Confirmation completes Baptism. The process of preparing for Confirmation involves accepting Jesus’ invitation to “Come and see” (Jn 1:39). It summons children and their parents to join others on the spiritual journey that began at Baptism. It challenges them to listen more closely to the Spirit, received at Baptism, as they hear again Jesus’ message and the call to discipleship. It invites them to recall the meaning of their Baptism and to re-form attitudes and values in the light of their own story, the story of God in scripture and the Church.
Forgiveness lies at the heart of our Christian faith. Jesus died that sins might be forgiven (Mt 26:28, and through the cross of Jesus, God reconciled us, “not holding our faults against us” (2Cor 5:19).
As with preparation of the other Sacraments, it is the experience of the Sacrament, in this case, the experience of forgiveness, that is central. The parent brings the child to this awareness.
Within the unique relationship between parent and child, the sharing of this insight is particularly meaningful. At this time the child will not know a lot about the Sacrament. The knowledge requirement is selective and simple: that God forgives me when I am sorry. It is the experience of forgiveness that is the focus. All that is done should ensure that it is a meaningful experience for the child.
The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic life. It embodies in itself the fullness of the Christian mystery. It is the climax of our initiation as Christians. Each time we celebrate the Eucharist we express and affirm the faith that we professed in Baptism and Confirmation.
In receiving the Eucharist we become one with Jesus. At this time in the child’s faith journey the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist is a hard concept for them to understand. The parent/carer at this stage can only try to share their own childhood experience of the yearning and joy in receiving Holy Communion as it was then known.
Confirmation is available to children from the age of seven and above who have been Baptised.
Reconciliation is available to children in years 3 and above who have been Baptised and Confirmed.
Holy Communion is available to children in year 3 and above who have been Baptised and Confirmed and have made their Reconciliation.
Parents/Carers of children not yet Baptised and seeking the Sacraments should contact the parish office to ask about our RCIC programme (Rite of Christian Initiation of Children).
Receiving the sacraments is a special time in our journey of faith. In order to assist and support children and their families, the parish has a comprehensive Sacramental Programme to help prepare these special events.
The Sacramental Programme has three parts:
1. PARENT/CARER INFORMATION NIGHT
Parents/Carers seeking the reception of the Sacraments for their children are required to attend an information night. This is an opportunity for parents to obtain information about the Sacrament, an overview of the content of the classes and a review of the Sacramental ceremonies. There is also an opportunity for questions and discussion. The evening is for parents and carers (children do not attend), to support them with all they will need in order to prepare their children for the Sacraments.
2. PRESENTATION OF CHILDREN
On the weekend at the beginning of the programme children are invited to Saturday evening and Sunday Masses.
This is an opportunity for the children and their families to receive recognition and support from the wider parish community as they commence their preparation.
The classes provide the children with an understanding of the symbols, gifts and processes for receiving each Sacrament. The classes are conducted in an informal, interactive group setting. Classes are held on Saturdays in the church complex. Children and their families are encouraged to attend the weekend Masses throughout the programme in order to enhance their preparation.
Sacramental Programme Contact: (02) 4332 2216
These sacraments are for school aged children usually starting in year 2. Adults who have not yet received the sacraments and would like to know more please click the button below.