Preparing to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion for the first time can be one of the most memorable experiences parents share with their children.
The FHC programme in Guildford aims to support and enable parents to live out their calling as the first teachers of the faith for their children.
The objectives of the programme are to:
- - Support parents in preparing their children to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion.
- - Encourage greater openness to having conversations of faith at home.
- - Integrate families into the wider parish community.
- Integrate the children into an ongoing youth programme.
- - Encourage parents to engage with other formation and support activities and courses in the Parish.
The 2021 programme |
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just for children Children in Year 3 and above are encouraged to join our weekly youth formation group Fearless, held during term time via zoom from 4.30-5.30pm. We have found that children preparing for First Holy Communion particularly benefit from joining Fearless as it really helps to grow their faith and integrate into the community with their peers. |
BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY Families are encouraged to attend Mass weekly, either via the live stream or by signing up to attend Mass in person. There are a range of times to choose from. Taught Mass Towards the end of the programme, there is a taught Mass. Different aspects of the Mass are explained, while Mass is celebrated. |
BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY These are fun ways to dig a bit deeper into the faith and teaching of the church. The hall is decorated beautifully and families explore the different interactive stations together in their own time. The activities run all day so families can book a time that suits them and stay for as long or as little as they like. We even have a café offering yummy treats! |
FAMILY HANDOUTS FOR PARENTS & CHILDREN At the beginning of the programme you will be sent 7 colourful, engaging handouts to work through each month with your child. The content on the handouts is covered at the parent sessions. The handouts are a great way to begin conversations about faith at home & to prepare for Holy Communion. |
PARENT SESSIONS just for parents We ask parents to join us for 7 parents’ sessions, which will be held on zoom this year. At these sessions we will go through the story we would like you to share with your child at home giving you an opportunity to reflect on the topics with your peers first. It is essential that a parent or guardian for each child attends each of these meetings |