This page provides information on the Sacraments offered at St Bernadette’s. For matters relating to the preparation of children for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Communion, please visit the page on parish sacramental preparation programs.

Baptism

The Baptism of infant children at St Bernadette’s normally takes place on the first, second and fifth Sundays at 12 noon. Booking is essential and must be done by contacting the Parish Office during our office hours.

As baptism is the gateway to all the other sacraments, the Church’s law insists that parents be prepared adequately so that they will be able to assume the responsibility of bringing their children up in the practice of the faith. Thus parents are expected to attend a 90 minute session of baptism preparation conducted by a trained married couple at 7.30 pm on the First Friday of the month. Godparents are also welcome to attend. Sponsors or godparents must be 16 years of age and be baptised and confirmed Catholics. There should usually be two godparents. A non-Catholic baptised Christian may act as a “Christian witness” (similar to a godparent) at a baptism provided that there is also a Catholic godparent.

Children who have reached the age of reason (seven years old) up to about 15 years of age may be prepared for baptism with the assistance of our parish Sacramental Co-ordinator.

Adults and young people aged 16 years and above are encouraged to undertake baptism through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults. (Incidentally, the Church recognises the baptisms carried out by mainline Protestant and Orthodox churches.)

Reconciliation

Reconciliation times are available in the Massabielle. For details relating to the first reconciliation program for children, please refer to our information on our parish sacramental preparation programs.

Eucharist

Mass times for the week are available in the Massabielle. For details relating to the first communion program for children, please refer to our information on our parish sacramental preparation programs.

Confirmation

For details relating to the confirmation program for children, please refer to our information on our parish sacramental preparation programs.

Young people in high school and adults who wish to receive this sacrament are asked to contact the parish clergy who will assist in determing the appropriate way to receive this sacrament.

It should be noted that in the Diocese of Parramatta, the priest who is to be the celebrant at a wedding where one of the Catholic parties has not been confirmed, has permission to administer the sacrament of confirmation before the wedding.

Anointing of the Sick

The parish clergy are available at any time to anoint parishioners who are seriously ill. Please contact the parish office (02) 9634 2622 or use the emergency numbers at the top. The clergy will also visit and anoint sick and housebound parishioners in their homes by arrangement.

There is an Anointing Mass at 12 noon on the First Friday of every month (except January), followed by a light supper in the Marian Centre, which is provided by the Parish Care Group.

Marriage

Both the Church and the Commonwealth Government emphasise the need for marriage preparation.

The parish clergy normally require a minimum of six months as several interviews are involved and Church and civil documents must be completed. The priest will usually assist the couple to prepare a liturgy booklet and arrange a practice with the couple.

Couples are expected to attend a marriage preparation course such as those provided by Engaged Encounter or Centacare (Diocese of Parramatta).

Weddings must be arranged in person with the celebrant who will provide couples with details concerning documents, use of the church, marriage preparation course dates, photos and videos requirements, flowers and music.

For more details contact the Parish Office. Parish staff will gladly assist with your inquiry.