Communion

Second Class is a very busy year preparing for First Confession and First Holy Communion both in school, and at home.  As part of the preparation, the school, parish and parents work together in the "Do This In Memory Programme" to help the children be actively involved in the sacramental preparation process.  Masses are organised each month by a committee of parents of children receiving First Communion.  Within the school, the Second Class teachers prepare the children for important ceremonies which include the Enrolment Mass, First Confession and First Communion.  The committee, parents, priests, children and teachers work very hard throughout the year to ensure children are ready for the sacraments.  It is a very special time for the children, who always show great prayerfulness and reverence each year.

Confirmation

Preparation for Confirmation starts with the Commitment Service. In this prayer service the children make their own committments about how they will prepare for Confirmation eg. going to mass regularly, helping out at home, being cheerful. This service takes place in our own classroom and our school chaplain is present with us for this service. 

In February, the Enrolment Service for Confirmation candidates take place in the local church. Here candidates put their names forward for confirmation, witnessed by the local congregation. 

Ten days before the Confirmation Ceremony, we have the Ceremony of Light. This ceremony entails the children's parents handing on the "light of faith" to their children. 

A retreat for the candidates is organised before the Confirmation Day. On that day we reflect on what it is we hope to get out of being confirmed and how the Holy Spirit will help us in our lives to do the work Jesus asked us to do.