Sacraments are signs established by Christ that cause what they signify. They heal us from sin and plant, nourish or restore the life of grace in us
In our Parish, in accordance with the diocesan policy, the preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Communion and Confirmation is parish and family based so the entire family learns, shares and celebrates together and discovers a wonderful dynamic at work as family members grow in faith, love and communication. In addition, families meet in groups that forge real bonds with other families.
Sacramental preparation programs in the Diocese of Broken Bay are family based/parish supported programs. They are structured in such a way that parents and children spend quality time with each other throughout the program.
The four one-hour preparation sessions will be facilitated by members of our parish sacramental team. They will assist with your child's preparation by providing the reading material, worksheets, and facilitators to assist you and your child to prepare worthily to receive the sacraments.
If there are any extenuating circumstances, regarding times and dates, please make an appointment to see one of the Priests, no later than one week prior to the first Enrolment and Parent Information Session.
Important Information
An enrolment fee is required to help cover the cost of materials and certificates. This fee is required to be paid at the time of enrolling your child for each sacrament. If you have difficulty in paying this fee, please see one of the Priests.
It is important to note that preparation for the sacraments in this parish commences at the Parent Information & Enrolment Session for each sacrament.
At least one parent, or legal guardian is required to attend the Parent Information & Enrolment Session. Children are not required to attend this session. You and your child are required to attend four one-hour preparation sessions of the program. Attendance at these sessions is compulsory for your child to be adequately prepared to receive the sacraments.
If this is your childs first sacrament at St John the Baptist, and they were not baptised here, you are required to bring a copy of their Baptismal Certificate to the Parent Information & Enrolment Session in order that they can receive the sacraments.
The Confirmation Sponsor must be at least 16 years old and a fully initiated practicing Catholic. Only one sponsor per child. Parents cannot be their own child's sponsor.
The order of reception of the Sacraments in the Diocese of Broken Bay is: Baptism, Confirmation, Reconciliation and Eucharist (First/Holy Communion)
Sacrament Celebrations and Effects
The Liturgical Celebration
The Minister immserses the candidate or pours water over his/her head and says: '[Name] I baptise you in the name of the Father; and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit'
The Effects
The forgiveness of sins, the new life of grace and membership of the Catholic Church
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