Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion is open to all Parish children who are in year 3 or above. As primary witnesses of the faith to their children, parents participate actively in the preparation of their children for the sacraments. Our preparation program incorporates “at-church” sessions/retreats for parents and children as well as “at-home” learning for parents and children to do together.

The preparation process at St. Brigid’s will guide parents in helping their child(ren) understand both what we believe as Catholics and how to live out those beliefs. The focus of the preparation is not only for the child’s first celebration of these Sacraments but, more importantly, for a lifetime of regular participation in the Sacrament of God’s love and mercy and a lifetime of being nourished at the Table of the Lord. Sacrament preparation is not only about cognitive learning; it is also a period of spiritual preparation. All members of the family are privileged to journey with these children as they prepare to celebrate these Sacraments.

During school term 4 we prepare for and celebrate Reconciliation. In school term 1 we prepare for and celebrate First Communion. This is a Parish/Family-Based Sacrament Programme that involves:

• Information & Registration sessions with the Sacrament Team
• Three to Four Preparation Sessions with families
• Family Preparation at home through the workbook
• Rite of Presentation of the candidates to the Parish Community at a Mass
• Parish Reflection Day for candidates a week before the Sacrament.
• Celebration of the Sacrament.
• Reconciliation is celebrated as a community on an evening in November. First Communion is celebrated during Sunday Mass in groups of up to 15 children.