Newtowncunningham & KilleaDiocese of Raphoe

Sacraments

The seven sacraments of the Church. Speak to the parish office or to Fr Philip after Mass.

The seven sacraments

The Catholic Church celebrates Baptism, Holy Communion, Confirmation, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Marriage, and Holy Orders. In this parish they are arranged with the parish office or with Fr Philip Kemmy after Mass. The parish office telephone is 074 9156138.

Baptism

Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation. In this parish baptisms take place on Saturdays at 5.00pm or Sundays at 12.15pm. Book in person with Fr Philip at the Parochial House, or in the sacristy after Mass. At least four weeks’ notice is needed. A completed application and a copy of the child’s birth certificate are required. Godparents should be practising confirmed Catholics. One Godfather and one Godmother are entered in the parish register. Parents are asked to provide a baptismal candle. If you are unsure about a godparent, ask the priest when you book.

Holy Communion

The Eucharist is the sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ, received at Mass. First Holy Communion is prepared through the parish programme. The date for the coming year is announced in the bulletin, and the parish office can advise you if you prefer to telephone. Children and adults who have made their First Communion are welcome to receive Holy Communion at the regular Masses of the parish. If you have been away from the Church for some time, speak to a priest. He will advise you about Confession and about receiving again.

Confirmation

Confirmation completes baptismal grace and is prepared through the parish programme, usually with the children of the parish school. Each year’s date is given in the parish bulletin once it is set. The parish office will also be glad to tell you the arrangements if you telephone. Parents who have a child in another school, or who have moved into the parish, should telephone the office in good time so that the child can be included.

Reconciliation (Confession)

The sacrament of Reconciliation is the Church’s sacrament of forgiveness. Confessions at All Saints are on Saturday from 10.30am to 11.30am. Should that hour have to move, it will be noted in the parish bulletin. You may also ask a priest after Mass, or telephone the office if you need a time outside that hour. The diocese publishes short videos and worksheets to help families prepare children for First Confession and First Holy Communion. Those resources are on the Diocese of Raphoe website.

Anointing of the Sick

Anointing of the Sick is for those who are seriously ill, frail, or facing surgery. It is not only for the dying. If you or someone at home needs a priest, telephone the office on 074 9156138. Holy Communion can also be brought to the house. Please do not wait until the last moment if a hospital admission is planned.

Marriage

Contact the parish office first to check the church date, and meet the priest who will celebrate the marriage. The Church asks for at least three months’ notice. The State also requires three months’ notice, given in person to a Civil Registrar. Couples are asked to complete a marriage preparation programme. In Ireland this is usually arranged through Accord. Accord advises booking the programme several months ahead, often six to nine months, because places fill. Each person will need a new long form baptismal certificate issued within six months of the wedding date, from the parish of baptism, and proof of freedom to marry. The priest will complete the pre nuptial enquiry with you.Civil Registration Office, Tirconnaill House, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. Open Monday to Friday 09.15 to 16.30 (Thursday until 19.30). Telephone 074 9123771.

Holy Orders

Holy Orders is the sacrament by which the Church ordains deacons, priests, and bishops. If you wish to talk about priesthood or the permanent diaconate, speak to Fr Philip or telephone the parish office. The Diocese of Raphoe can then advise you on the next step.