First Holy Communion
We Celebrate the Eucharist
We offer preparation to families with children in Year 3 or above in the current academic year and who attend Mass at OLSD.
Candidates are expected to attend Mass on Weekends. Mass times are Saturday 5.30pm; Sunday 9.00am and 10.30am. See our Mass Times page for more information.
Parents’ Meetings are usually on designated Wednesdays at 8.00pm in the Church Hall or Church.
Children’s Meetings are on Wednesdays 5.00 – 6.30pm in the Church Hall.
The suggested donation towards the costs of the First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion Preparation Programme 2025-2026 is £30 per child. Once you register, we will provide information about payment to the parish office.
Please register no later than Wednesday 1st October 2025.
Information for 2025-2026
The first parent’s meeting will take place on Wednesday 8th October from 8.00 – 9.00pm in the Church.
The programme for the children will begin on Wednesday 15th October 5.00 – 6.30pm (Children’s Introduction).
The full schedule of dates for First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation Programme 2025-2026 will be published here shortly.
After a successful first year, the parish will continue with the programme called “HEART SPEAKS TO HEART: THE GIFT OF HOLY COMMUNION”. Launched by Bishop Marcus from the Diocese of Leeds, this resource is designed to engage children with the life of the Catholic Church through various activities and teachings.
The program includes:
- Bible stories and Church teachings: Helping children encounter Christ through scripture and tradition.
- Interactive activities: Such as treasure hunts and stunning illustrations to make learning engaging.
- Virtue education: Teaching virtues like love, gratitude, and courage, which are integral to the life of Christ and His disciples.
Would you like to be a Catechist?
We are always on the lookout for enthusiastic people to train as catechists to help deliver our youth-based sacramental programmes. Young people who have already been confirmed and would like to be involved as assistant catechists in the programme should contact Ann Paton, the Catechesis Ministry Lead running the First Holy Communion programme or Fr Anthony Lobo.
The parish will organise a Catechists’ Formation Day on Saturday 4th October from 10.30am to 4.15pm.
