This new programme is set up in the parish to journey with children and young people aged 7-13 who have not been Baptised into the Catholic church but who, with the agreement of their parents/carers, would like to prepare for full Reception into the Church. This preparation will lead, without obligation, to the Sacraments of Baptism (for those not currently Baptised into a different Christian denomination), Confirmation and First Holy Communion during the summer months.

The programme begins with a meeting for parents/carers, and will involve a course of classes for the children/young people to attend, divided into two age ranges to keep the catechesis age-appropriate. However, the most important part of the journey is not meetings, events or courses - it is about growing in their sense of belonging to the church family. It is therefore essential that they attend Sunday Mass (or Saturday evening if this is easier) on a regular basis. After all, when they receive the Sacraments they are, in effect, saying "Now I'm fully a part of this community, this Family of God!" What could mean more now, than simply growing accustomed to regular involvement in the Mass and gaining that sense, with family and friends in prayer and worship, that they really do belong?

To enrol your child for the programme please use the form on this page.

NEW PROGRAMME for 2026-27

Applications are now closed for this year's Junior Reception Programme. Thank you to all those families who are joining us! Please keep regular checks on this page for updates, as well as looking out for emails (our main communications method, using the MailChimp platform or directly from Pam) and listening for announcements in church. Thank you also for the excellent start, as we see the vast majority of the children regularly at Mass.

The first of the Catechist-led classes are now set up and available for online booking. Until any of the slots are full, the following times are available:

• Tuesday 3rd November, 5.45pm or 6.30pm at Holy Cross Church OR
• Wednesday 4th November, 5.45pm or 6.30pm at St Mary’s Church.

Please look out for an email, sent around 3.30pm on Friday 23rd October with the booking link. (Please check you Spam folder if necessary, and remember to whitelist the sender address to avoid problems later on!)

PROGRAMME for 2025-26

The Sacraments for these children were completed during the summer. If your certificate has not already been received, please speak to Pam at the church. We thank all the families for their support along the way!

Please keep all our young people in your prayers