Preparing for the Sacraments of ​Reconciliation, First Holy Communion
​and Confirmation

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As parents, you may remember preparing for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation at school or in a parish group. The celebration of the Sacraments are always joyful occasions as they help to deepen our faith, and help us to grow in holiness as we try to become better disciples of the Lord.

The Sacraments are important for each of us.  In order to receive these wonderful gifts we have to spend some time in preparation. The best preparation for receiving any Sacrament is at home, within the family, as you celebrate your faith together.  

​As your child grows and approaches the age when it is time to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Holy Communion (usually in year 3 at school) and Confirmation (usually in year 6), the Catholic Parishes of Banbury will help.  It is important for families to understand the commitment that you, your child and, family make in preparing and celebrating the Sacraments, and in ensuring that the faith is practiced.
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Our two Catholic Parishes in Banbury offer different ways in which children can be prepared for the sacraments.

​If your child attends one of our two Parish Catholic primary schools, the sacramental preparation for Reconciliation, Holy Communion and Confirmation take place through the RE Curriculum at school.  For children not attending a Catholic school, we offer parish preparation courses.

Enrolment for these courses begins at the beginning of September each year, with the closing date for completed enrolment forms being the end of October.  St Joseph's Confirmations and First Holy Communion dates to be confirmed; St John's Confirmation will be held on Thursday 9 February 2017 and First Holy Communion will be on Saturday  6 May and 13 May 2017. 

Please contact the parish office at St John's for more information about preparing your child for any of these Sacraments.  The next intake will start in September 2017.