St Clare's Catholic Primary School "Working together to achieve our full potential"

Sacramental Preparation

“I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never be hungry; he who believes in me will never thirst.” Jn 6:35

Baptised Catholic children are eligible to prepare to receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion from Year 3.

The children follow a carefully prepared programme, led by teachers. School is the first point of contact for parents who wish their children to prepare to receive the sacraments. We work with the parish closely to provide preparation sessions for both the children and parents.

Children preparing for the first sacraments and their parents are expected to regularly attend Masses at St Clare’s. During the time of preparation the children take an active part in Mass as they develop a deeper understanding of their Catholic faith and what it means to be Catholic.

Preparation to receive the sacraments begins with a Mass of Enrolment with the parish community, where the children are given a medal to wear throughout their time of preparation each time they attend Mass. We also ask prayer sponsors from the parish to pray for the children during their time of preparation. We invite our prayer sponsors to a special Mass of Presentation, where the pupils are presented to the parish and displayed in church. Throughout the journey of preparation school and families work closely together, ensuring children are prepared well. Children enjoy having special celebrations in school where they share this special time with their teachers and friends.

Sacramental Preparation 2026

Sacramental preparation will take place every Monday 3:30pm- 4:30pm in school from January - June. Dates will be given nearer the time:

TBC February 2026

Mass of Enrolment

9:30 am during Sunday Mass- all parents and children

TBC April 2026

Sacrament of Reconciliation

09:30 am in church

TBC- June 2026

Mass for First Holy Communion

09:30 am in church

TBC- June 2026