Sacraments

The Sacrament of Reconciliation

Supported by school, pupils who are baptised Catholics (in Year 3 and above) prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation with catecists from the parish.

All children in Year 3 are included in the preparation and celebration of the sacrament. Our inclusive ethos ensures that those children who are not baptised Catholics are able to participate as fully as possible in supporting their classmates during the programme.

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Pupils who are baptised Catholics receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist for the first time in Year 3. They are prepared for the sacrament by catecists from the parish.

Preparation will generally begin in February. Instead of the preparation taking place during lesson times during the school week, preparation for the reception of Holy Communion and First Confession will all take place in the Social/6th Form Centre by St. Dunstan’s Church on Saturday afternoons from 4.15pm to 5.15pm. It will finish in time for those who wish to go to the Vigil Mass of Sunday which begins at 5.30pm.

The children receive Holy Communion in the Summer term. This sacrament is widely celebrated by the entire school and parish community.

First Holy Communion children before they receive the sacrament

Now we can receive the Body of Christ every time we attend Mass

The Sacrament of Confirmation

In Year 6, the children are prepared for and receive the Sacrament of Confirmation during the Summer term. The children are prepared, following a school based programme and have weekly lessons. The programme is based on the Curriculum Strategy used in the Archdiocese of Birmingham.

As part of their work, children prepare a project on the saint of their choice. They are encouraged to select the name of a saint who has inspired them in some way. A sponsor is also chosen and has the role of supporting the child in their spiritual life.

Children from the three schools in our parish (St Jude’s, St Alban’s and St Dunstan’s) receive the Sacrament of Confirmation together. The Sacrament itself is conducted in St Dunstan’s Catholic Church in Kings Heath.