Sacramental Preparation
Sacramental Preparation
Sacrament of Reconciliation
We are proud to support children as they take important steps in their faith journey. One of these is preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. This is a special moment in a child's spiritual life. It's a chance to experience God's love and forgiveness in a personal way. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, children learn about saying sorry, making peace, and growing closer to God and to others.
What Is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It celebrates God's endless mercy and invites us to reflect on our actions, ask for forgiveness, and begin again. During preparation, children learn:
- That God loves us no matter what
- Why it's important to say sorry when we've hurt someone
- How to forgive and be forgiven
- That we can always turn to God
Getting Ready for the Sacrament of Reconciliation
Children prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in Second Class, with help from their teachers, families, and the parish. They explore stories from the Bible, especially those that show Jesus' kindness and forgiveness, and learn simple prayers and take part in activities that help them understand the meaning of the sacrament.
We work closely with parents and the Parish Priest to make this a joyful and meaningful experience. Families are encouraged to talk with their children about kindness, honesty, and making good choices.
A Special Day
The Sacrament of Reconciliation ceremony is a gentle and peaceful celebration. Children gather with their classmates and families in the church, where they meet the priest and take part in the sacrament in a calm and supportive setting. It's a moment filled with grace and reflection.
We are honoured to walk alongside our pupils as they take this important step. The Sacrament of Reconciliation reminds us all that forgiveness is a gift, and that love and understanding are at the heart of our school community.
The Sacrament of the Eucharist
After the Sacrament of Reconciliation, children continue their journey by preparing for the Sacrament of the Eucharist. This is a joyful celebration where they receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time.
As part of their preparation, children are encouraged to attend weekend Mass with their families. This helps them become familiar with the structure of the Mass and deepens their understanding of the Eucharist as a central part of Catholic life.
With support from teachers, parents, and the parish, children learn about the meaning of the Mass, the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, and how to live with love, kindness, and gratitude.
The Sacrament of the Eucharist ceremony is a beautiful occasion, filled with prayer, music, and community spirit. We are proud to guide our pupils through this milestone and help them grow in faith and friendship with God.
The Sacrament of Confirmation
Confirmation is the final sacrament of initiation in the Catholic Church, and a meaningful step in a child’s faith journey. Through Confirmation, pupils receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and are strengthened to live out their faith with courage and commitment.
Preparation usually takes place in Sixth Class. Pupils learn about the Holy Spirit, the lives of the saints, and how we can follow Jesus in everyday life. They also choose a Confirmation name and reflect on what it means to serve others and live with purpose.
Children are encouraged to attend weekend Mass regularly with their families, helping them feel more connected to the parish and deepening their understanding of the liturgy.
The Confirmation ceremony is a joyful and reverent occasion, celebrated by the bishop in St. Mary’s Cathedral. Surrounded by family, classmates, and parishioners, each child is anointed with chrism oil and receives the Holy Spirit to guide them throughout their lives.
School Hours
Doors Open: 8:30 am
School Starts: 8:45 am
Lunch Breaks: Staggered
Infant Day Ends: 1:25 pm
School Day Ends: 2:25 pm
Afterschool Ends: 2:25 pm
Homework Club Ends: 4:30 pm
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Get In Touch
Holy Cross Mercy School
New Road, Killarney, Co Kerry
V93 A096
Roll Number: 19487M

