Sacramental Programme

The Sacramental Programme

Our Sacramental Programme supports children and families as they prepare to receive the

Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. It is a special time in the life

of our school and parish community, where children deepen their understanding of God’s

love and grow in their relationship with Jesus.

The programme is a journey of faith that involves children, parents, school staff and the

parish working together. Through prayer, learning and celebration, families are supported as

they prepare for these important moments in the Catholic faith.

Working Together as a Community

The Sacramental Programme begins with an initial meeting for families, where the journey is

explained and families are welcomed into the programme.

Parents and carers are supported through a series of preparation sessions led by Sister

Regina, who helps them reflect on the meaning of the Sacraments and how they can support

their children in faith at home.

In school, the children take part in learning linked to the programme. These sessions are led

by the class teacher and the RE subject lead, who guide the children in understanding the

meaning of the Sacraments through scripture, prayer, discussion and activities.

This partnership between home, school and parish helps ensure that the children experience

the Sacraments not simply as events but as part of their ongoing life of faith.

Receiving the Sacraments

During the programme, children prepare to receive:

 The Sacrament of Reconciliation (First Confession) – where they experience God’s

forgiveness and learn about reconciliation, mercy and making good choices.

 The Sacrament of the Eucharist (First Holy Communion) – where they receive Jesus

in the Eucharist for the first time and become more fully part of the life of the Church.

These celebrations are important milestones in the children’s faith journey and are

celebrated with reverence and joy within the parish community.

Celebrating Together

Following the introductory meeting for families, the children, staff and families gather for a

special celebration at Mass the following weekend. This Mass marks the beginning of the

sacramental journey and provides an opportunity for the whole community to pray together

and support the children preparing for the Sacraments.

Throughout the programme, after each meeting, there are further opportunities for families to

gather in prayer and celebration at celebratory Masses.

The Salford Diocese Sacramental Programme

Our preparation follows the Salford Diocese Sacramental Programme, which helps children

and families explore what it means to live as followers of Jesus. Each unit focuses on a key

part of our Catholic faith and prepares the children gradually for the Sacraments of

Reconciliation and the Eucharist.

Unit One – We Are the People of God

Children learn that they belong to God’s family, the Church. They reflect on their Baptism

and what it means to be part of a loving community that follows Jesus.

Unit Two – We Are People Who Pray

In this unit, children explore prayer as a way of talking and listening to God. They experience

different forms of prayer and learn how prayer helps us grow closer to God in our daily lives.

Unit Three – We Are People Who Celebrate God’s Love and Forgiveness

Children reflect on God’s mercy and forgiveness. They learn about making good choices,

saying sorry and preparing to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Unit Four – We Are People Who Celebrate God’s Word

This unit focuses on the Bible and the importance of listening to God’s Word. Children learn

how scripture guides us and how the Word of God is celebrated in the liturgy.

Unit Five – We Are People Who Follow Jesus

Children explore what it means to live as disciples of Jesus. They reflect on Jesus’ teachings

and how they can follow him through kindness, service and love for others.

Unit Six – We Are the Body of Christ

In the final unit, children learn about the Eucharist and the celebration of Mass. They

understand that when we receive Holy Communion, we become united as the Body of Christ

and are sent out to live our faith in the world.

Unit Seven – We Are People Who Live Our Faith

In the final unit, children reflect on how they can continue to live out their faith after receiving

the Sacraments. They are encouraged to follow Jesus in their everyday lives through prayer,

kindness, service and participation in the life of the Church community.