Sacraments There are seven sacraments in the Church and those which relate most directly to the daily life of the parish are described below. If you or your children wish to participate in one of the sacraments, please contact Fr. Anil.

Baptism   Baptism is about belonging to Jesus and being part of his family, the Church.  Christian parents obviously want to share with their children all the benefits and graces they receive within the Church.  As part of the preparation for the celebration of the sacrament, parents and where possible, Godparents, will be given the opportunity to explore the meaning of Baptism.  Children who are seven or over will be asked to take part, with their parents, in a longer period of preparation. 

First Holy Communion   The First Holy Communion course runs during term-time between October and May for children in Year 3 and above, together with their parents.  The children's sessions are led by our First Holy Communion catechists and the parents by Fr. Anil.

Reconciliation   This sacrament is sometimes known as Confession or Penance.  It is the means given us by Jesus to restore us to friendship with God and with one another.   This sacrament is normally available as on the Notice Board or at any reasonable time, on request. 

Confirmation  Most years we run a Confirmation programme between October and Eastertide.  

Marriage  Engaged couples looking towards celebrating the sacrament of Marriage should, in the first instance contact Fr.Anil.  As least six months notice is required by Church law to ensure that proper preparation can take place.

Becoming a Catholic through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults

The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) is a process in which adults are initiated in the Catholic faith.  The process involves sharing our faith in a group setting.  When there are enquirers seeking to find out more about our faith a programme will begin in the autumn.  In the New Year those wishing to go further will commit themselves as catechumens (those not already baptised) or candidates (those baptised in other Christian traditions but wishing to come into full communion with the Catholic Church). 

This will lead to Easter, the day when adult initiation has taken place from the very earliest days of the Church.  Becoming a Catholic is a step of enormous importance and signifies a deep commitment - both to Christ and to his Church.  Hence the Church lays great stress on preparing her candidates for reception with as much care and prayerful attention as she can.

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To cover the costs born by the Church, we do suggest a modest donation for Marriages and Funerials. Further, if you are not a regular churchgoer here at Our Lady and St Mary Magdalen, you might consider making a further donation towards the upkeep of the church.