Dear Friends

As the summer ends and we look to the events of the coming year, I hope and pray that it will be safe and joyful for all the children of the parish. For those who may be hoping to receive the sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation, I look forward to journeying with you to those blessed and joyful days.

Our  now well-established practice of celebrating the two sacraments on the one day has seen great success and we are structuring the programme accordingly for this year. Dates and details are available herewith, First Holy Communion & Confirmation Program 2024-2025.

Sacramental Preparation has a threefold aspect. The catechetical programme in schools is geared to prepare children with the relevant level of teaching and instruction. On a parish level we have our catechetical Sundays, whereby catechesis for the children is included in the prayer of the community on a number of Sundays. In your own homes, I would invite you to pray and prepare with your children for these sacraments.

Registration is now open (Balyna Parish Communion Request Form 2025 & Balyna Parish Confirmation Request Form 2025) and all application forms are to be returned by 29 September. For children baptized outside the parish, baptismal certificates should accompany the application. Please note that application is not automatic for children in our schools but must be made directly to the parish.

Our ceremonies are simple and deeply prayerful and memorable in that simplicity. I look forward to engaging with you as we prepare for these joyful events and bring our children along the pathway to faith.

Many thanks!

Fr Seán