Sacraments

BAPTISMS Two months notice to be given. Parent's wanting to arrange Baptism for their child must initially meet with Fr. Michael who will discuss the Sacrament with them and give them forms which they must complete. The parents will then be expected to attend preparation meetings with a Catechist. Baptisms usually take place on the first Sunday of the month after the 10.15am. Mass or if requested during any Sunday or weekday Mass.

RECONCILIATION (CONFESSIONS)
take place each Saturday after the 9am Mass and between 6pm - 6.20pm or by personal request anytime.

HOLY COMMUNION for the sick and housebound.
Fr. Michael takes Holy Communion to those who are sick or housebound every First Friday and at other times when appropriate. Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist also take them Holy Communion on or around the third Sunday of each month.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION & FIRST RECONCILIATION
Parents who would like their child to prepare for these Sacraments must ask Fr. Michael for his approval. Children must be in school year three or above to be eligible. At least one parent must promise to attend Mass with their child each week during the preparation period which lasts about six months.

The preparation is a partnership between Parents, (the primary teachers of their children) Teachers in school and Catechists who provide pastoral support.

First Confessions take place during a children's reconciliation service in April where parents and siblings are also invited to attend and go to confession as a means of providing family support. The children will then make their First Holy Communion during a special Mass in May.

CONFIRMATION
Fr. Michael visits the Catholic High Schools in Leeds each term and meets all the students who are parishioners of St. Augustine's. He invites those in year eight and above to write to him requesting confirmation. It is explained to them that it is their decision unlike when they were baptised when their parents made the decision and baptismal promises for them.

Confirmation takes place yearly with neighbouring parishes when our Bishop visits one of these churches in rotation.

MARRIAGE
A minimum of six months notice is required. Couples will be expected to attend a marriage preparation course.

THE SACRAMENT OF THE SICK
Occassionally there are Masses for healing when the Sacrament of the Sick is administered in church. At other times it is by personal request. It is important that relatives or friends of a sick person notify Fr. Michael so he can visit them and administer the Sacrament.