St Mary’s takes seriously the preparation and Service of Admission of
Children to Holy Communion. Each year between 12 and 18 children
aged seven to eleven years take their First Communion, the
majority being 7 to 9 years old
To prepare children for admission to First Communion we run about
six weekly sessions after school. We introduce the candidates to the
congregation at the start of the course, asking for their support, and
we meet the children’s families. As the course progresses, the children
explore their faith, ask questions, make new friendships and get to
know the clergy and other teachers
Once they are communicants, many of the children are thrilled to train as acolytes, which further enhances services, and sends out positive messages about the place of children in our church
In the Service of Admission the children are happy and confident to play an active part, by reading, bringing the Offertory to the Altar, or preparing and reading the Intercessions. Many people have commented that this is one of the most joyful events in St Mary’s year, enabling the whole parish to celebrate a very important step in the lives of our children. The children also thoroughly enjoy the reception we hold for them afterwards. Celebrating in the churchyard with the excited children, their families and the congregation in the sunshine, is the best possible testimony to passers-by of the thriving life of St Mary’s
Please email here if you would like to here more about First Communion or ring Fiona Barnett on 020 8878 6975