Dear Parent(s’) / Guardian,
We would like to begin by saying thank you for supporting the children in preparing for the receiving of the Sacrament of First Reconciliation. It is our intention to take the children to church before the 12th February 2022 celebration, to go through the service. We related to parents, at the conclusion of the lesson on Tuesday, that we would do this on Tuesday 25th January (this has been cancelled), because songs and children’s parts have still to be learnt and we want the service to be as polished and meaningful for the Reconciliation candidates and their families.
However, the children will be walked to church at 3.20 pm, Tuesday 1st February. A health and safety risk assessment is in place for the walk from Saint Joseph’s School to the church. However, any parents who are in a position to walk down with us, your support would be much appreciated. Accordingly, the children are to be picked up at 4.30 pm from Saint Joseph’s Church on the 1st February please.
The Reconciliation Service will take place at 10.00 am on Saturday morning of the 12th February. Can children be in the church by 9.30 am so we can go through songs etc? The church has a risk assessment in place for the service and parents are directed to wear face masks for the service and to keep socially distanced. (Directives will be provided on your family’s arrival at the church on the morning of the sacramental service to ensure a safe environment for the celebration of this special time for families.) There will be demarcated areas for families to sit. The children will be required to bring their ‘I belong’ books so they can go through the Act of Sorrow and say their prayers in preparation for the receiving of the Sacrament.
Can parents please ensure that the children know the Act of Sorrow? However, if they struggle to do this or become more concerned about remembering the verse, a card with the Act of Sorrow will be available. It is the receiving of the Sacrament and making a meaningful confession that is the most important part for the children on their faith journey.
Confirmation dates for the celebration of additional Reconciliation service and the First Holy Communion Masses
14th May at 10.00 am Reconciliation Service in preparation for the Holy Communion Mass
Holy Communion Mass: Saturday May 21st 2022 for year three and year five at 10.00 am
Holy Communion Mass: Saturday, May 28th 2022, for year four and six at 10.00am
Kind regards,
Mrs Houston, Mrs Murray George and Mrs Kolomite