Children's Sacramental Preparation

Unleashing Life

"I have come that they might have life and have it to the full." Jn 10:10

 

Helping children meet Jesus, grow as joyful disciples, and journey together in a loving faith community.

Sacramental Preparation Programme 2026–27


We are delighted to invite families to take part in this year's Sacramental Preparation Programme at St Mary's Cathedral.

Preparing to receive the Sacraments is not simply a matter of attending classes. It is a journey of faith for the whole family. Through prayer, formation, participation in Sunday Mass, and parish life, children and parents are invited to grow together as disciples of Jesus Christ and prepare to receive the grace of the Sacraments.

 

Who Can Apply?

  • First Reconciliation: Primary 3 and above
  • First Holy Communion: Primary 4 and above who have already received First Reconciliation
  • Confirmation: Primary 7 and above

What Does the Programme Involve?

By registering for the programme, families commit to participating fully in the preparation journey throughout the year.

Children

Children preparing to receive the Sacraments participate in:

  • Weekly sacramental preparation sessions
  • An age-appropriate parish youth group
  • Regular Sunday Mass with their family

Parents

Parents participate in the Parent Formation Programme. These sessions, held throughout the year, are designed to help parents grow in faith and accompany their children on their sacramental journey.

Family Commitment

As part of the programme, families commit to regular participation in Sunday Mass and the life of the parish throughout the year.

Weekly Schedule

First Reconciliation (P3+)

Mondays, 6.00–7.15pm

First Holy Communion (P4+)

Sundays, 9.15–10.45am

(Between the 8.00am and 11.00am Masses)

Confirmation (P7+)

Fridays, 6.00–7.00pm

  • Followed by Cathedral Youth Group (7.00–9.00pm)
  • Includes participation in a weekend retreat

Key Dates

First Reconciliation (P3+)

  • Parent Information Meeting: 14 September, 6.00pm
  • Classes begin: 28 September
  • Retreat Day: 6 March
  • Frist Reconciliation: 15 March

First Holy Communion (P4+)

  • Parent Information Meeting: 13 September, 9.15am
  • Classes begin: 27 September
  • Retreat Day: 22 May
  • First Communion: 29 May

Confirmation (P7+)

  • Initial meeting with catechists: arranged individually with each family
  • Classes begin: 3 October
  • Retreat Weekend: 23-25 April
  • Confirmation: 16 May

Please note: There are no classes during school holidays.

Before Registering

Please ensure that your family is registered on ChurchSuite before completing the registration form.

Please register only if your family is able to commit to the children's programme, the Parent Formation Programme, regular Sunday Mass attendance, and full participation throughout the year.

By registering, you are agreeing to the expectations outlined above and committing to participate fully in the programme.

Registration

Choose the appropriate programme below:

First Reconciliation (P3+)

Register Here

First Holy Communion (P4+)

Register Here

Confirmation (P7+)

Register Here

Questions?

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact:

sacprep@cathedral-abdn.org

We look forward to accompanying your family on this important journey of faith.