Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion
"Listen, I am standing at the door, knocking, if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you, and eat with you and you with me"
(Rev: 3:20) Diocesan Vision Statement
The children of our parish prepare for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion by following a set programme of guidelines, as laid out by the Diocese of Hexham and Newcastle.
This takes place within our schools and is supported by the involvement of parish volunteers; catechists, who implement it, in conjunction with Fr Adrian, through an organised programme of sessions carried out over a set number of weeks and months.
Themes that are covered include: Belonging, Baptism, Listening, Reconciliation and Celebration. All areas covered are linked to the Mass and the Eucharist and allow our children to see the impact that our faith has on everyone around them; families, friends, schools, neighbours and those in need in the wider world.
A catechist's role is to support both children and their families, especially throughout the programme sessions. The main teachers of the faith, for any child, are of course parents, family or guardians. Opportunities are provided for these, which run alongside the children's sessions, to discuss the same themes and to explore, develop and enhance a greater understanding of our Catholic faith.