Sacramental Preparation

Sacramental Preparation at Christ the King

“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 for receiving their First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion from Year 3.

The children follow a carefully prepared programme, currently led by the Parish Priest and deacon, school teachers and parish catechists. School is the first point of contact for parents who wish their children to prepare to receive the sacraments. School works 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 Christ the King. 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.

We begin by having an Mass of Enrolment with the parish community where the children are given a wooden cross to wear throughout their time of preparation each time they attend Mass. We also ask for prayer sponsors from the parish to pray for the children during their time of preparation. We invite our prayer sponsors to a special Mass and present them with a prayer card and photo of the child they are going to be praying for. We welcome them to attend our Mass of thanksgiving after we have received both Sacraments and invite them to an afternoon organised by the children to offer them thanks. The children also enjoy having a special celebration in school where they share with this special time with their teachers and friends.