Sacraments

For more information about any of our preparation courses, please contact the parish office.

Baptism

Baptism marks the beginning of our life of faith in relationship with Jesus Christ and his Church.

The baptisms of infants and children are held St Bede’s on designated Sundays, usually on the fourth Sunday of the month at 12.30pm. There are no baptisms during Lent.

Parents are required to attend a short baptism preparation course, which is run by our deacon and his wife. For more information, see the welcome letter below and download an application form.

Reconciliation (confession)

In reconciliation, we receive complete forgiveness from God for our sins through the words of the priest. It is a wonderful way to receive God’s grace – the assurance of God’s presence and mercy for us, and the strength to continue on the paths of holiness.

Reconciliation is generally available on Saturdays but check the newsletter for exact times. During Advent and Lent, a service of reconciliation is held in Basingstoke, including the opportunity for individual confession.

Sometimes we get nervous about going to confession. But however long it has been, however bad the sin, however embarrassed you feel – don’t let anything stop you from this encounter with God. The priest will make you feel at ease if you are nervous or don’t know what to do or say. The examination of conscience below may help you to prepare

First Holy Communion

A First Holy Communion programme is offered every year with enrolement in the autumn. Please check the newsletter or enquire at the parish office for more information.

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)

View of the church across the baptismal pool

Our parish Journey in Faith course for adults wishing to be baptised and/or confirmed runs from September to Easter and is advertised in advance in our parish newsletter and website.

It is not all about learning and remembering everything that has ever been taught by the Catholic Church. Becoming a Catholic is also about building a deeper relationship with God.  As part of the process, there is a period of time to learn about prayer and getting ready to become a Catholic.

Only when someone is ready and after they have spent some time reflecting on what Catholics believe does the ceremony of Baptism and Reception into the Catholic Church takes place.  This is a day of great joy for those who become Catholic but also for the community as we welcome another member.

Confirmation

People born into Catholic families are usually baptised as babies. This is when the family and friends promise to bring up the baby as a Roman Catholic Christian. When a baptised person is old enough to make their own decisions, they can be confirmed. This takes place in our cathedral in Portsmouth by our bishop.

The confirmation programme for teenagers is run annually across North West Hampshire.

Marriage

Couples wishing to marry in the Catholic Church here or elsewhere should notify our parish office at least one year before the proposed marriage date. This is to give sufficient time for the pre-nuptial enquiries.

Couples are required to attend a marriage preparation course.