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We welcome all questions you might have about our Parish Sacramental Program. If your question is not answered here, please contact our Sacramental Coordinator at families@nhcatholic.org.au.
Where can I find the Sacramental Program dates and requirements?
You can view and download our program dates here. This brochure outlines the process you and your child will go through before they receive the Sacraments of Confirmation, First Reconciliation, and First Holy Communion.
Why doesn't my child's school run the program?
The Sacramental Program we offer is parish-based. Each year, we have approximately 180 children from as many as 10 different schools participating in the program. We take a parish-based approach because we value the primary role parents play in passing on faith to their children. Our program sessions encourage parent-child interactions, accompanied by activities to help children explore the key concepts of the Sacraments in ways they can understand.
Why is Confirmation the first sacrament to be received?
The order in which Sacraments are received varies from diocese to diocese throughout Australia. In our Diocese of Broken Bay, we follow the traditional order, meaning that Confirmation is celebrated before First Reconciliation (or Confession/Penance) and First Communion (or Eucharist). The order sacraments are received varies from diocese to diocese throughout Australia.
I’ve been through the program before with another child. Why do I have to go through it again?
If you have had a child participate in the Sacramental Program before, it is not necessary for you to attend the Overview Meeting for parents which is held before each Sacrament's program and classes. Each year, our Sacramental Program changes to best suit those participating. It's a time of sharing and growth, and one to be treasured with your child.
Why do you need my child’s baptism certificate?
If your child did not receive Baptism at North Harbour, we ask that you provide their Baptism certificate. This is so that we can comply with procedures that require us to notify the parish where your child was Baptised that they have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. If your child was Baptised overseas, we ask that you please provide the contact details or website for the parish.
Can children Baptised in Eastern Catholic Churches join in the program?
If your child was Baptised in the Maronite, Ukrainian, Chaldean, Melkite, or Syro-Malabar Eastern Catholic Church, they would have been Confirmed at Baptism. While we welcome your child's participation in the preparation program, they cannot receive Confirmation a second time. They will instead receive a blessing during the Confirmation ceremony.
My child has been Baptised in another Christian Church but would like to complete the Sacraments in the Catholic Church. Is this possible?
Of course! The Catholic Church acknowledges Baptism in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and this Baptism can only be received once. If your child was Baptised according to this formula, they may be received into the Catholic Church through a Rite of Welcome. If your child's Baptism did not include this formula, then the Sacramental Process for your child will begin with Baptism.
I can't attend all the meetings listed in the Program. Is that okay?
Attending the information sessions and family preparation group sessions are integral parts of the Sacramental Program. If you can't attend these sessions, please contact our Sacramental Coordinator. If possible, arrange for a family member or sponsor to support you by accompanying your child during their preparation for the Sacraments.
We have other commitments and are unable to make the Sacrament celebration. Is that okay?
If you want your child to receive the Sacraments but are unable to attend the celebration, please contact our Sacramental Coordinator.
Can I enrol my child if I do not belong to this parish but send my children to the parish school?
Our Sacramental process is parish-based, family-centred and school-supported. We ask you to please contact your Parish first.
What is involved in being a Group Facilitator or Co-Facilitator?
Group facilitators or co-facilitators lead the four family preparation group sessions for each Sacrament. These are offered in small groups of up to six children, and we need approximately 30 parents to volunteer as facilitators or co-facilitators.
There's no need to have special expertise to be a facilitator, and you don't need to have a teaching background. All information and resources are provided. Sessions follow a workbook, and group facilitators guide the discussion according to the materials. We offer a training session (approximately one hour) for group facilitators during the preparation for each Sacrament. Parents who have never been a facilitator or who would like a refresher are encouraged to attend.
If you'd like to learn more about what's involved in being a group facilitator, you're invited to watch this short video: http://youtu.be/jKICzOft2k0
How are family preparation groups formed or allocated?
You're welcome to form your own groups (made up of six children, plus their parents/carers) for the family preparation sessions, and to nominate a parent in the group as faciliator or co-facilitator. If you are new to the program or haven't joined a group, we will place you in a group once you enrol your child and you will be contacted by your group facilitator.
How do I book my child in to receive the Sacrament?
You will be sent a TryBooking link where you can reserve a place for your child at our Sacramental celebrations. You'll receive more information on bookings at the Parent Overview sessions.
What if my child has not decided on a Confirmation Name or Sponsor at the time of enrolment?
That's okay - you can provide details of Confirmation Name and Sponsor at a later date. Here's some more information:
Confirmation name: Our Bishop has asked that children choose the name of a saint. Your child might also choose to be confirmed with their Baptismal name as it shows the connection between these two sacraments. Once your child has chosen their Confirmation name, you're encouraged to help them learn as much as they can about their patron saint. This saint will be their friend for the rest of their lives.
Sponsor: Your child's sponsor represents the faith community and supports them in their journey with Jesus. You might choose one of your child's godparents if they are available. Otherwise, any Catholic who is aged 16+ and has received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Communion may be a sponsor. If your child's sponsor cannot attend the celebration, you can nominate someone to stand in for them as a proxy; however, the sponsor's name will appear on your child's Confirmation record.
Do I need to pay for my child to receive the Sacraments?
We do not ask for payment, but we encourage parents to make a donation to cover the cost of materials. A suggested amount for each individual Sacrament is $35. Some parents choose to contribute $100, which covers the enrolment in all three Sacraments as well as a processing fee. You can make this contribution online or at the Parish Office. If you would like to discuss this donation or if you are currently experiencing financial difficulties, please contact our Sacramental Coordinator.
Who can I ask for more details about enrolment and the process of preparation?
Please contact Ursula Halloway, our Families, Catechist and Sacramental Coordinator, on 0450 101 767 or at families@nhcatholic.org.au.