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ST ALBAN'S CATHOLIC CHURCH - MACCLESFIELD
FAITH & WORSHIP
Sacraments
Accompanying you at every stage of your journey in faith
We have a responsibility as a parish family to help one another grow in faith. There are special times when we may need a little help — preparation for the Sacraments is one such time. We are here to walk alongside you.
First Sacrament
Baptism
For Catholics, Baptism is the first step in a lifelong journey of commitment and discipleship. Through Baptism we are freed from sin, become adopted children of God and are embraced into the family of the Church.
For Children & Young People
After the birth of your child, or if you would like your older children baptised, please contact the Parish Office to arrange a date. You will then be contacted by the baptism preparation team who will guide you through two preparation classes and the day itself.
For Adults
Adult Baptism takes place through the RCIA programme, culminating at the Easter Vigil — a joyful celebration for the whole parish family.
WHEN
Contact parish office to arrange
PREPARATION
Two preparation classes required
Helen & Paul Williams
Primary Age
First Holy Communion &
Forgiveness
All parents of children preparing for First Forgiveness and Communion are asked to attend five evening meetings spread out over the preparation time. These meetings are an important part of helping your child prepare for this significant milestone in their faith journey.
Children are prepared at St Alban's School. Preparation sessions are also offered to children attending other schools — please contact Carla for details.
When
Across the school year
PARENTS
Five evening meetings required
Carla Read-Shaw
Year 9 Upwards
Confirmation
In this Diocese the Sacrament of Confirmation is offered to young people in the second year of Secondary Education. Preparation is parish based and the programme runs from January to June.
A team of catechists helps the candidates and their parents to prepare for this important stage in their Christian life. Through Confirmation we receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and are strengthened in our faith.
WHEN
Programme runs January to June
Who For
Young people in their second year of Secondary Education
Rosemarie McBride
All Welcome
Becoming a Catholic (RCIA)
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is open to anyone — of any denomination or none — who wants to explore what it means to be a Catholic. A team of parish volunteers run weekly sessions from September until after Easter, walking humbly with you from wherever you are on your spiritual journey.
What the Programme Involves
The Enquiry Period runs from September to Christmas, helping enquirers develop a relationship with God. From January to Easter, the programme considers the Mass, Sacraments and Prayer in greater detail. The programme concludes with a Day of Prayer with Bishop Mark Davies and the Rite of Election at Shrewsbury Cathedral.
Meetings are very informal and anyone is welcome to come along — there is no obligation to continue.
LOCATION
Parish Centre
OPEN
Tuesday evenings 7:30pm – 9:00pm, late September to Pentecost
Denise Volpato
Engaged Couples
Marriage Preparation
This is a parish group helping engaged couples to prepare for their marriage at St Alban's Catholic Church, Macclesfield or at St Paul's Catholic Church, Poynton.
Marriage preparation is an important and joyful part of the journey towards your wedding day. Please contact us well in advance — we recommend at least six months before your planned date.
WHERE
St Alban's or St Paul's Poynton
Notice
Please contact at least 6 months in advance