Our Lady of the Angels Nuneaton
Baptism, First Holy Communion & Confirmation
The three Sacraments of Initiation - Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist (First Holy Communion) - lay the foundations of every Christian life. Through these sacraments, we are born anew, strengthened, and nourished in our faith journey.
At Our Lady of the Angels, we are committed to providing comprehensive preparation for these sacred milestones in your spiritual life.
Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation, welcoming new members into the Catholic Church and cleansing from original sin. It is the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.
Age: From birth to 7 years old
Preparation: Parents and godparents must attend baptism preparation classes
Requirements:
Schedule: Usually celebrated during Sunday Mass or by special arrangement
Age: 18 years and older
Preparation: RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) program
Duration: Typically 6-12 months of preparation
Celebration: Usually at the Easter Vigil
Includes: Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion received together
All parents and godparents are required to attend preparation sessions before the baptism.
Topics Covered:
Schedule: Monthly sessions - contact the parish office for dates
First Holy Communion is a child's first reception of the Eucharist, typically received around age 7-8 when they have reached the "age of reason" and can distinguish between ordinary bread and the Body of Christ.
Age: Typically 7-8 years old (Year 3 in school)
Requirements:
Preparation: Two-year religious education program
Celebration: Special Mass in late spring/early summer
For: Baptized adults who have not received First Communion
Preparation: Individual instruction with the priest
Duration: Several months of preparation
Celebration: Can be received at any Mass after preparation
Our comprehensive two-year program prepares children to receive Jesus in the Eucharist.
Year 1 (Age 6-7):
Year 2 (Age 7-8):
Classes: Sunday mornings after 9:00 AM Mass
Registration: September each year
Confirmation completes baptismal grace and strengthens us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. It deepens our baptismal life and helps us bear witness to Christ in word and deed.
Age: Typically 14-16 years old (Year 10-11)
Requirements:
Celebration: Annual Confirmation Mass with the Bishop
For: Baptized adults who have not been confirmed
Preparation: Individual or group instruction
Duration: 6-12 months of preparation
Requirements: Must have received First Communion
Celebration: With the Bishop or by special permission
Our two-year program helps young people understand their faith and prepare for adult membership in the Church.
Year 1:
Year 2:
Classes: Sunday evenings 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Service Hours: 20 hours of community service required
Retreat: Mandatory Confirmation retreat
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is the process by which adults become full members of the Catholic Church, receiving all three Sacraments of Initiation.
Inquiry Period: Informal introduction to Catholic teaching
Catechumenate: Formal instruction in Catholic doctrine and practice
Purification and Enlightenment: Immediate preparation during Lent
Mystagogy: Post-initiation formation during Easter season
Schedule: Weekly sessions from September to May
Celebration: Sacraments received at the Easter Vigil
Ready to take the next step in your faith journey? Here's how to get started:
For more information about any of the Sacraments of Initiation or to begin preparation, please contact our parish office:
Phone: 024 7638 2889
Email: info@ourladyoftheangelsnuneaton.com
Office Hours:
Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Parish Priest: Father [Name]
Director of Religious Education: [Name]
We look forward to accompanying you on your faith journey and celebrating these important milestones with you and your family.