At Bethany the school leaders, the Religious Education leadership team, the school administration team and the teachers work closely together to collaboratively prepare the students and their families for the Sacraments. This is strongly supported by a whole school focus, as well as by our priests and Parish of St. Andrew’s.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation is received in Year 3.
Forgiveness is one of the great characteristics of the Christian faith. God forgives us but we too are required to be forgiving people. Forgiveness of each other, as God forgives us, restores the bonds of love and friendship
The Sacrament of First Eucharist is received in Year 4.
The Eucharist is the source and summit of all Christian life. It is the rite of the Church in which we celebrate that Jesus died for us and receive from his table the sacrament of his body and blood.
The Sacrament of Confirmation is received in Year 6.
Confirmation is a strengthening and deepening of the grace of Baptism. Through the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit, Confirmation strengthens us to use our gifts to live as Jesus taught and to contribute to the mission of the Church.
Gifts of the Spirit: Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear Of The Lord.
Fruits of the Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Generosity, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control.
Bethany has a strong partnership with parents when they are presenting their children to receive the Sacraments. Parents are invited to attend meetings to develop their own understandings of each of the Sacraments. Staff members attend all celebrations to support candidates and their families.
Much time and energy is given to the preparation of the liturgies for Sacraments. Confirmation liturgies in particular are enhanced by the instrumental music, singing and liturgical movement that is provided by Year 5 students in support of their peers. Attention is also given to supporting those present to maintain a quiet and reverent presence within the liturgical space. This all combines to give participants a deep understanding of the significance of the celebration that is occurring.