Confirmation

Year 12 students are invited to join our programme, which consists
of about 6-8 two hour weekly sessions of instruction, a Mass of enrolment,
prayer sessions and a Day of Retreat etc.

A group of trained catechists work with the candidates, who are confirmed
by Father Pat, our Spiritual Director.

IMPORTANT MESSAGE FROM FR SAMMON
CONFIRMATION [CONSULTATION WITH PARENTS]– For many years young people in this parish have received the Sacrament of Confirmation during school year 12. The thinking behind this was that the Sacrament was a good way of preparing them to face the world of University life/work life with their faith strengthened and renewed. It also meant that the young people chose to be Confirmed and were not pressurised by parents. In the early stages that worked very well but in recent years the pressure being put on Year 12 students for their A Level studies has grown tremendously – that was not there when the choice to offer the programme to Year 12 was initiated. In the last 3 years it has been extremely difficult to catechise the young people and we also found a lack of support from some parents for the programme. Since Confirmation is such an important Sacrament it cannot be taken lightly and adequate preparation has to be given – it also requires commitment. After consultation with the Catechists and some parents a suggestion has been made that we should prepare young people in Years 9 or 10. They are experiencing far less pressure at school during this time and Years 9 or 10 are not compulsory examination years for them. During Year 12 Confirmation always falls within the busy A Level examination period. Before making a final decision on this matter I would welcome the comments of parents. You may email or write to me with your comments and suggestions. Also the opinions of pupils in Years 9 or 10 are welcome. May I point out to parents that you have a huge responsibility in supporting your child for the Sacrament of Confirmation. For those in the present Years 10, 11 and 12 who would, if we decide to go with Year 9, miss out, we will make special arrangements. At the time of going to press no firm decision has been made until we hear the views of parents and young people in Years 9/10. Thank you for your co-operation.