In the middle of every Confirmation Programme we encourage parents and candidates to come together for a day away from the usual venue (St Clare's) and be with each other for a time of exploration of what the Lord offers through the Sacrament of Confirmation.
You will see from the photographs (the many photographs) that accompany this piece what a wonderful day the children had, bolstered by the presence of their parents. Brettargh Holt was the chosen venue. This House run by the Salesian Sisters whose apostolate is to the young, is ideally placed just at the edge of the Lake District and within easy striking distance of Preston. The day was typical for early Spring, damp but not too wet to 'play out.' And that is exactly what the boys & girls did to let off steam during their free time.
The day started with Mass in the Chapel which the priest punctuated with explanations of why certain actions were performed at certain times.
Coffee followed Mass and then the boys & girls went off with their catechists to work together whilst the parents met with Fr Loughran and had a session about the Sacrament their children are to receive. This was followed by lunch and then, in the afternoon the first of the two sessions that followed when again children went with their catechists, and this time the parents with Rev. Bernard Loveland a deacon from the local parish. The final session was a joint one. The boys and girls show-cased that day's work for their parents which culminated in a dramatic presentation of Pentecost. After the final time of prayer, the assembly wended their way home enriched and blest.
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