Sacraments

The grace-filled moments of our Catholic life

The Sacraments

Click to learn about each sacrament. Please speak to Fr. Walter to partake in any sacraments.

Baptism

About Baptism

Baptism is the first sacrament of initiation, the gateway to eternal life. Through Baptism, we are freed from sin and become children of God, members of the Church, and heirs to the Kingdom of Heaven.

How to Arrange Baptism

Initial Enquiry

Contact the parish office to register your interest. At least one parent must be Catholic.

Preparation Course

Parents attend a preparation session (usually first Saturday of the month).

Choose Godparents

Godparents must be practicing Catholics, confirmed, and at least 16 years old.

Schedule the Date

Baptisms are celebrated on most Sundays after the 11:00am Mass at St Peter's.

Requirements

  • At least one Catholic parent
  • One Catholic godparent (or two)
  • Completion of preparation course
  • Birth certificate (for adults)

First Holy Communion

About First Holy Communion

The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. When we receive Holy Communion, we receive the Body and Blood of Christ. Children usually make their First Communion in Year 3 (age 7-8).

2025-2026 Programme

Enrolment

Open in September 2025. Register via the parish office.

Preparation Sessions

8 Saturday morning sessions, 10:00am - 11:30am

Parent Preparation

Parents attend an evening session to learn how to prepare their child.

First Communion Mass

Celebrated at Pentecost 2026 at St Peter's Church.

Programme Details

Cost: No fee. Voluntary donation of £30 appreciated.

Mass Attendance: Required each Sunday during programme.

Session Days: Saturdays, 10:00am - 11:30am

Confirmation

About Confirmation

Confirmation seals our Baptism and pours out the Holy Spirit upon us, giving us the grace to be courageous witnesses to Christ. It is usually received in Year 9+ (age 13-14).

How to Prepare

Register

Enrol via parish office. Open to Year 9 and above.

Choose a Sponsor

A confirmed Catholic who will support your faith journey.

Preparation Course

6-month programme including reflection days and retreat.

Service & Reflection

Complete 20 hours community service and written reflection.

Celebration

The Sacrament is conferred by the Bishop at Peterborough Cathedral. The date is announced each year in September.

Reconciliation

About Reconciliation

Confession is the sacrament of God's forgiveness. Through the absolution of the priest, we receive pardon for our sins and the grace to avoid sinning in the future. "The blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from every sin" (1 John 1:7).

How to Go to Confession

Pray

Ask the Holy Spirit to show you your sins.

Examine

Review your conscience using the Ten Commandments.

Approach

Enter the confessional or sit face-to-face.

Confess

Say: "Bless me Father, for I have sinned..."

Act of Contrition

"O my God, I am sorry for my sins because they offend you, a God who is all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of your grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasions of sin. Amen."

Marriage

About Marriage

Holy Matrimony is a sacred covenant between a man and woman, founded on the love of Christ. It reflects the love between Christ and His Church. The ceremony is a liturgical act performed in church.

How to Arrange Marriage

Initial Enquiry

Contact parish office at least 6 months before your intended date.

Marriage Preparation

Attend a marriage preparation day (usually twice yearly).

Documentation

Provide required paperwork (baptism certificates, etc.).

Rehearsal

Attend wedding rehearsal a few days before the ceremony.

Requirements

Notice: At least 6 months notice required

Mass: Can be Nuptial Mass or simpler ceremony

Documentation: Baptism certificates, death certificates (if widowed)

Anointing of the Sick

About Anointing

The Anointing of the Sick is the sacrament of healing. Through this sacrament, those suffering from illness or old age receive spiritual and sometimes physical healing. It can be received multiple times.

When to Receive

Serious Illness

Before or during serious illness or hospital admission.

Chronic Illness

For ongoing conditions that have worsened significantly.

Elderly

As frailty increases, even without specific illness.

Surgery

Before any serious operation or medical procedure.

Near Death

For those near death (Last Rites / Viaticum).

How to Arrange

Contact the parish office during office hours, or call the emergency number for urgent requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book a baptism?

Contact the parish office by phone or email. You will be asked to attend a preparation session before the Baptism is scheduled.

Can I have a Nuptial Mass?

Yes, if one party is Catholic. If your spouse is not Catholic, a simpler ceremony without Mass can be arranged.

When is Confession available?

Saturday 10:30am - 11:30am at St Peter's, or by appointment. Call for other times.

Can I receive Last Rites?

Yes, for urgent pastoral emergencies call the emergency line and press option 1.

Ready to take the next step?

Our parish team is here to help guide you through the sacraments. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Contact the Parish Office