Our Lady of Mount Carmel Wentworthville - a Carmelite family parish  
   
 
Sacramental Process for Children

The process of sacramental initiation for children already baptised is family-based and parish-centred. In this way, chidren are brought up to be full members of a community of faith.

The sacraments of confirmation and eucharist complete the journey of sacramental initiation begun at baptism. They are celebrated, in that order at such time parents believe their children have reached the age of reason (although the parish does determine a minimum age limit). The sacrament of penance is also celebrated with children as part of the journey towards full sacramental initiation into the Church. This is generally celebrated by children for the first time before they celebrate confirmation and eucharist.

Sacramental Process Logo

The proceess for the sacramental initiation of children is founded upon the same principles as Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), which is the model for all Christian initiation in the Church. Children, therefore, engage in a period of preparation in the midst of the parish community before the celebration of each sacrament. Parents are encouraged to fulfil their responsibility and priviledge as first educators of the faith to their children.


ENROLMENT INTO THE SACRAMENTAL PROCESS FOR CHILDREN
Enrolment forms for the sacramental process are made available from the parish centre each year around February-March. A form needs to be completed for each sacrament to be celebrated (to assist with parish administration), and returned by the due date specified to the parish office. Parents are asked at that time to make a financial contribution towards the cost of the resources used for the sacramental preparation of their child.

SACRAMENTAL PROCESS DATES

 


FIRST RECONCILIATION
Children who are in year three of primary school are eligible for First Reconciliation at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. A parish-based preparation course is conducted prior to the celebration of the sacrament. It is essential that the child and parent(s) attend this course.

Preparing for Reconciliation
Here are some sites that parents and children can visit in preparation for Reconciliation.


CONFIRMATION
Children who are in year four of primary school are eligible for Confirmation at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In keeping with Diocesan guidelines, children celebrate confirmation before receiving Eucharist for the first time. A parish-based preparation workship is conducted on a weekend prior to the celebration of the sacrament. It is essential that the child and parent(s) attend this course.

Preparing for Confirmation
Here are some sites that parents and children can visit in preparation for Confirmation:


FIRST COMMUNION
Children who are in year four of primary school are eligible for First Communion at Our Lady of Mount Carmel. In keeping with Diocesan guidelines, children celebrate Confirmation before receiving Communion for the first time. A parish-based preparation course is conducted in the weeks prior to the celebration of the sacrament. It is essential that the child and parent(s) attend this course.