The day of our Baptism is the most important day of our life, because through it we become members  of the Church and we receive the promise of eternal life.  Parents wishing to have their child baptised (aged up to 3 years) are required to attend the Baptism Preparation class.  Leaflets giving details are available in the lobby or below.  Both parents are expected to attend these classes and prospective godparents are also welcome.  Parents are reminded that they should be attending Mass regularly before making arrangements to have their child baptised. Please make sure you introduce yourselves to Fr. Jean-Laurent after a Sunday Mass and before the classes commence.  The completed Baptism Application form (available below or from the church Office) should be handed to Fr. Jean-Laurent after a Sunday Mass - again this should be done before the Preparation Class commences.  Separate arrangements will be made for older children.  There are set days for Baptisms in Holy Family and Our Lady of Canvey and these will be advised at the Preparation Classes.   One parent at least MUST be a Baptised Practising Catholic & are reminded that they should be attending Mass regularly for at least three months before making arrangements to have their child baptised.  No Baptisms in Lent.

The next Baptism Preparation Course is on Wednesday, 7th September 2011 at 7pm in the St. John Bosco Hall adjacent to Holy Family Church.  No class in August.

Preparation for Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in our parish usually commences in September each year and finishes in the following June with the Thanksgiving Mass and Celebration.  The child will make their first confession (Reconciliation) during February or March and the Mass where the child receives the Gift of the Eucharist for the first time is usually in May or June.    Please note that children wishing to join this programme must be attending Mass every week with their families.