Sacramental Preparation
Jesus spoke to them... "and know that I am with you always; yes, to the end of time."
With You Always Sacramental Programme
At St Sebastian’s, we are proud to follow the With You Always programme to prepare our children for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion — two very special milestones in their Catholic journey. Developed by the Archdiocese of Liverpool, this programme supports children in deepening their understanding of God’s love, forgiveness, and the gift of the Eucharist.
With You Always Sacramental Programme is a partnership between home, school and parish, involving catechists, parish priests and families working closely together. Parents are recognised as the first and most important educators of faith, continuing the promise made at their child’s baptism to nurture them in the Catholic faith. The programme provides meaningful opportunities for parents and children to learn, pray and grow together, helping families to strengthen their relationship with God and with one another.
Through engaging lessons, prayer and family-based activities, children are encouraged to explore the true meaning of each sacrament and to recognise God’s presence in their everyday lives. The parish community plays an important role in this journey, welcoming and supporting families as they prepare to celebrate these joyful moments of faith together.
The With You Always programme helps each child to understand that their faith is a lifelong journey — one of growing closer to Jesus, sharing His love and living out the values of the Gospel every day.
Liverpool Archdiocese - Sacraments
WITH YOU ALWAYS SACRAMENTAL PROGRAMME – INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2026 : LETTER FOR FAMILIES FROM FR. LIAM
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2026: WITH YOU ALWAYS PREPARATION TIMETABLE
| SESSION | DATE | TIME | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registration | Sunday 1st March 2026 | 11.00am - 12.00pm | St Sebastian's Church |
| Session 1 | Sunday 1st March 2026 | 11.00am - 12.00pm | St Sebastian's Church |
| Session 2 | Thursday 26th March 2026 | 3.30pm - 4.30pm | St Sebastian's School |
| Session 3 | Thursday 16th April 2026 | 3.30pm - 4.30pm | St Sebastian's School |
| Session 4 | Thursday 23rd April 2026 | 3.30pm - 4.30pm | St Sebastian's School |
| Session 5 | Thursday 30th April 2026 | 3.30pm - 4.30pm | St Sebastian's School |
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION 2026 MASS
Children from St Sebastian's school would normally receive their First Holy Communion in St Sebastian's Church. As we are blessed with so many children, the class will be spilt up into groups of about 15 children at each Mass. Each Mass will take place on a Saturday; at either 10.00am or 1.00pm.
COMMUNION MASS TIMETABLE WILL BE CONFIRMED ONCE ALL THE INFORMATION FROM THE COURSE REGISTRATION HAS BEEN COLLECTED.
FIRST HOLY COMMUNION OUTFITS
We recognise that First Holy Communion is a very special and sacred occasion for our children and their families. Some children may wish to wear a traditional or special outfit to mark the day, while others may prefer something simpler.
Children are welcome to wear an outfit of their choice, provided it is appropriate for this important celebration. Above all, we want every child to feel comfortable, confident and proud as they receive the sacrament.
We are very mindful that purchasing a Communion outfit can place additional pressure on family budgets. Please do not feel any expectation or obligation to buy a specific outfit. The most important thing is the child’s participation in this significant step in their faith journey, not what they are wearing.
If you have any difficulties or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Parish Office for support.
St Sebastian’s School also has a number of beautiful Holy Communion dresses, generously donated by families and in immaculate condition, waiting to be given a new owner. If you require a Holy Communion dress for this special occasion, please contact the school directly and we will be happy to help.
