Life lived through the sacraments
“The Sacraments are the place of God’s closeness and tenderness for us. They are the concrete way that God willed to come to meet us, to embrace us, without being ashamed of us and of our limitations.” — Pope Francis
The sacraments are at the heart of the life of the Church and of our parish community. Through them, God comes to meet us in a real and personal way, sharing His grace and love at every stage of our lives.
As St Augustine beautifully expressed, “a sacrament is an outward and visible sign of inward grace.” While we cannot see this grace with our eyes, we encounter it through visible signs given to us by Christ and entrusted to His Church.
Each sacrament marks an important step in our journey of faith, and the Church is here to accompany and support you at every stage.
Infant Baptism
Baptism is the beginning of Catholic life. Through this sacrament, a child is freed from sin, becomes a child of God, and is welcomed into the Church.
If you are planning to have your child baptised, congratulations! We look forward to welcoming your family into the life of the parish.
At St Edmund’s:
- Baptisms are usually celebrated on Saturday or Sunday afternoons.
- Baptism during a Sunday Mass may also be possible.
- Parents should be parishioners or regular Mass attendees.
If you belong to another parish, permission from your parish priest is required.
Preparation
Parents are asked to:
- Complete this form: Application for Infant Baptism
- Attend a Baptism preparation session
- Allow several weeks’ notice (no baptisms during the final two weeks of Lent).
The Church recognises baptisms from other mainstream Christian traditions. As Baptism can only be received once, it is not repeated.
Contact: beckenhambaptism@rcaos.org.uk
Sacrament of Reconciliation
God’s mercy is always available to us through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Confessions are usually available:
- Saturdays: 10:30–11:00am and 5:00–5:55pm
In addition, parish penitential services are held during:
- Advent
- Lent
These services offer a prayerful opportunity to receive God’s forgiveness, often with visiting priests available.
First Holy Communion
Children in Year 3 and above who are part of the parish are invited to prepare for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.
The preparation programme:
- Runs from September to May/June
- Takes place approximately twice a month on Saturday mornings
- Concludes with the celebration of First Holy Communion
Registration is usually announced in June/July via the newsletter and at Mass.
Eucharist or Holy Communion
“Not to go to communion is like someone dying of thirst beside a spring.” — St John Vianney
The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic life. Catholics are called to attend Mass:
- Every Sunday.
- On Holy Days of Obligation.
At St Edmund’s, we offer multiple Mass times across the weekend, including a Saturday Vigil Mass. If you are unable to attend due to illness, Holy Communion can be brought to you at home by a priest or authorised minister.
Confirmation
Confirmation completes initiation into the Church through the gift of the Holy Spirit.
The parish programme is open to young people in Year 9 and above who freely choose to deepen their faith.
The course:
- Runs from February to June.
- Includes weekly sessions, a Mass of Enrolment, and a Mass of Commitment.
- Concludes with the Confirmation Mass, usually celebrated by a bishop.
Adults seeking Confirmation or reception into the Church are warmly encouraged to get in touch.
Contact: beckenhamconfirmation@rcaos.org.uk
Anointing of the Sick
This sacrament is offered to those who are seriously ill, preparing for surgery, or in danger due to age or illness.
Through anointing with oil and prayer, the priest asks God to grant:
- Strength.
- Peace.
- Healing (according to God’s will).
If you or someone you know would benefit from this sacrament, please contact the parish office or one of the clergy.
Contact: 020 8650 0970
Holy Orders
Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, men are ordained as deacons or priests to serve the Church. At St Edmund’s we are blessed that men over the years have responded to the call to vocations as members of the clergy.
If you feel called to serve Christ in this way, we encourage you to speak with the parish priest for guidance and discernment.
Further information is available on the diocesan website: vocations.