Baptism

Each year some 120 infants are baptized at English Martyrs along with a number of school age children and adults.

For children of catholic parents, the baptisms normally take place on the last Sunday of the month following a two week programme of preparation for the parents and godparents. This programme of preparation takes place once a week in the two weeks leading up to the end of the month and is based on a video series exploring the role of the Church and the family in the life of the child - the key theme is "Wanting the best for your child". It allows for time for conversation and discussion around the themes of choosing a name for the child, choosing godparents, prayer and so on.

Yellow application forms are available at the back of the church for the baptism programme. For older children (those aged 7 and above) a separate programme is in place.
The next preparation is on Tuesday 7th at 7.00pm and Tuesday 14th September 2010 at 7.00pm and the date of the Baptism is Sunday, 26th September 2010 at 3.30pm.


First Communion



The First Communion programme has begun for both state school children on a Saturday morning and in our English Martyrs Primary School.
The next programme begins on Saturday 2nd October 2010. Classes are from 10.00am to 11.00am.
During the programme children are taught the basics of our Christian faith and prayers and also prepare a special service for the parish at Christmas time.
First Communion will be celebrated over three Saturdays in June 2011.


Confirmation

The confirmation programme is for children in year 8 of secondary school and above; each year confirmation is celebrated in the Autumn term following an 8 week programme of preparation. Confirmation will be celebrated by Bishop Paul Hendricks on Saturday November 6th 2010 at 6.00pm. Application forms for 2010 can be collected from the church or parish office from June 2010. Classes begin on Friday 10th September 2010.



Programme for Adults


The RCIA programme is designed for adults who wish to become Catholics. Each year some 12 - 16 adults join the programme which begins on Monday, 8th November 2010 and runs until May 2011. Meetings are held in the Lady Chapel from 7.00pm - 9.00pm. The format varies year by year and focuses on various aspects of our Catholic faith by means of prayer, bible reading, discussion and sharing.
Application forms for 2010 are now available and can be picked up in the church or from the parish office.

Marriages


Marriages are celebrated at English Martyrs by appointment. The couple seeking to be married here need to give six months notice of their intention to marry. At least one partner must be a Catholic.



Marriage prepartion involves an opportunity for the couple to examine their relationship with one another in the the light of their relationship with God. For more information contact a member of the parish team or call for an appointment on 020 7703 4967.