I want to take this moment to congratulate all those involved in our First Communion Program. During 5 masses on the 9th and 16th May, 106 children made their first communion. These children go to 25 schools. Thus the opportunity for the parish to celebrate the young people of our parish who are spread over so many schools is very special. Eight catechists prepared the children over 20 meetings between September and May. The space provided by Donhead Preparatory School is very much appreciated. I would not like to consider how we could provide the training without their assistance. The catechists are very dedicated and train the children very well. Where I can see it clearly is during the very prayerful first communion masses.

I want to notify the whole parish community and remind the first communion families that we will have a parish-wide celebration of the achievement of our children on Sunday 14 June, the Feast of Corpus Christi. At the 1245 mass, we will focus on these children. They are invited to come in their first communion clothes. At the end of that mass, we will have a Corpus Christi Procession, where our first communion children will be the Guard of Honour.

Please continue to pray for these children as they enter more fully into the graces of the Church.