The 7 Catholic Sacraments

Catholicism is rich in traditions that guide the spiritual life of its faithful. Central to this journey are the Seven Sacraments, sacred rituals instituted by Christ that confer grace and strengthen our relationship with God. These sacraments mark the milestones of our spiritual life, from birth to eternal life.

The Sacrament of Reconciliation.

In Year 3, the children prepare to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation — a very special step in their faith journey. As they get ready for this Sacrament, they take time to reflect on what it means to be children of God and how this shapes the way they treat others with kindness and respect.

Through stories from the Bible, such as Zacchaeus the tax collector and the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the children discover Jesus’ teachings about repentance, forgiveness, and God’s never-ending love for us.

They also learn that God has given us the gift of free will, which means we can make our own choices — both good and bad. By thinking carefully about their actions, the children begin to understand how their choices can affect their relationships with others and with God.

As part of their preparation, the children learn the structure and meaning of the Rite of Reconciliation, so that when Lent arrives, they are confident and ready to celebrate this Sacrament for the first time.

First Holy Communion (Eucharist).

Once the children in Year 3 have celebrated their First Reconciliation, they begin preparing for the special occasion of their First Holy Communion. This joyful event usually takes place on a Saturday in May. Throughout this time, the children work hard at home, in school, and within the parish to prepare their hearts to receive Jesus for the first time.

During Religious Education lessons, the children learn about the Last Supper — the special meal Jesus shared with his disciples. They explore the breaking of the bread and discover how this moment connects to what happens during the celebration of the Mass. By reflecting on the words of Jesus at the Last Supper and the words spoken by the priest at Mass, the children come to understand that Jesus is truly with us each time we gather to celebrate Mass.

Over the year, the children study all the parts of the Mass in detail, focusing especially on the Liturgy of the Eucharist as they approach their First Holy Communion. By exploring this part of the Mass closely, they learn that it is a celebration of thanksgiving, and that during the Eucharistic Prayer, the priest calls upon the Holy Spirit to transform the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus.

Outside of school, families play a big part in helping the children prepare. Together, they attend Mass each week, pray at home, and share Bible stories. The children also complete special activities at home that are linked to their First Holy Communion journey.

To support this preparation, families are invited to attend workshops led by school staff and the Parish priest. These sessions give parents the opportunity to reflect on and deepen their own faith so they can continue to guide and encourage their children along the way.

Confirmation.

In Years 5 and 6, the children begin preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation — a very special moment in their faith journey, usually celebrated in July. Their preparation takes place at home, in school, and within the parish community.

During Religious Education lessons, the children explore the Holy Spirit in depth. They learn about the fruits and gifts of the Holy Spirit and reflect on how these can guide and strengthen them throughout their lives. The story of Pentecost helps them understand how the Holy Spirit came to the disciples — and how they too will receive this same Spirit at Confirmation. Because Confirmation is a Sacrament of Initiation, the children also look closely at how it connects to Baptism, focusing on the signs and symbols that link the two.

As part of their preparation, each child completes a project on a saint of their choice. They are encouraged to choose a saint whose life inspires them and to take that saint’s name for Confirmation. They also choose a sponsor — someone who will support and guide them in their spiritual life. To deepen their understanding and faith, the children take part in spiritual retreats, giving them time to pray, reflect, and grow closer to God.

Outside of school, families play a key role in the journey toward Confirmation. Together, they attend Mass each week, pray at home, and share Bible stories and discussions inspired by the children’s Religious Education lessons. The children also complete special home activities to help them prepare for the Sacrament.

Families are invited to attend workshops led by school staff and the Parish priest, where parents have the chance to reflect on and strengthen their own faith — helping them to support their children more deeply along the way.

The celebration day itself is a joyful and faith-filled occasion, bringing together children, families, parish members, clergy, and staff to share in this wonderful milestone.