Parish of Saint Catherine of Alexandria

Churches of Our Lady and Saint Gregory the Great, Lydiate

Friday 5^th May 2023

Dear Parent/Carer

First Holy Communion and Reconciliation

As promised, I am now in a position to share with you more information about your child’s celebration of First Holy Communion.   

During the week, I managed to touch base with Mrs Albon and Mr MacAreavy to start to focus our minds on these wonderful celebrations within our parish and school lives.  I reflected with them on the ‘Two Mass’ system that we had during the covid years – for safety reasons – and some of the questions that have come to me from amongst yourselves since.   I proposed to both Head Teachers that, although we have had such beautiful, dignified and prayerful celebrations, it may be time to look again at what we do.

Having chatted things through with them both I have come to the conclusion that it is time for us to revert to one mass at which the whole class is present. This will not affect your allocated numbers of guests.  They will still be as previously advised 8, inclusive of your child.   A recent memo from our Insurers and our Health and Safety Officers have reminded us of our duty to ensure that we do not overreach the capacity of our church buildings and this number still keeps us within our limits.

The Mass will be celebrated at 10.30am with Saint John Bosco’s School being on 10^th June and Saint Gregory’s School on 17^th June.

First Reconciliation

As your child approaches their Holy Communion they will also be prepared to make their first reconciliation – as with our children in years 5 and 6 who, due to covid, never got to celebrate the gift of the sacrament of God’s loving forgiveness.  The celebrations will be planned in with the school calendar and we will let you know the times when we have them – should you wish to attend the service.  Our children will make their confessions following that service.

Sunday Mass

There is no preparation in school or with our catechists that can replace the celebration of mass itself.  It is imperative that you and your children attend Sunday mass, not least for your child to become aware of the mystery we celebrate and understand what we are doing.

With thanks for your support and the assurance of my prayers.

Fr Grant            

94 Liverpool Road, Lydiate.  L312NA

Tel: 015-526-0096 or Email: olsg@rcaol.org.uk