The Sacraments of Initiation

Through Baptism, Confirmation, and the Holy Eucharist, we are welcomed into the family of God, sealed with the Holy Spirit, and nourished with the Body and Blood of Christ. Together they form one continuous journey into the life of grace and full belonging in the Catholic Church.

Baptism

“The beginning of our life in Christ.” (cf. Matthew 28:19)

What it is: At St Paul’s, we believe it is a gateway to the Christian life. In Baptism we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, incorporated into Christ and His Church, and marked with an indelible spiritual seal.

Scriptural roots: Jesus gave us the call to baptise when He said: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” (Matthew 28:19–20) We also look to the Baptism of Jesus in the River Jordan, when He entered the waters and the Father proclaimed, “This is my beloved Son…” (Matthew 3:13–17) And Christ teaches that new life in Him comes through grace in the Sacrament, saying: “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5)

• Matter & Form: At St Paul’s, Fr Stephen baptises using natural water that has been solemnly blessed. With the sacred words, “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
• Minister: Ordinarily, Baptism is celebrated by a bishop, priest, or deacon. However, in an emergency, any person with the right intention may baptise. In those rare circumstances, it is important to record the date and time of the Baptism and notify St Paul’s parish office as soon as possible, so that it can be formally entered into the parish register.
• Effects: Baptism is far more than a symbolic act, it is a moment of true spiritual transformation. Through this holy sacrament, God pours out His grace and places His loving mark upon the soul. Baptism brings about four beautiful effects:  (Forgiveness of sins) All Sin, both original sin and any personal sin, is washed away. Nothing remains that separates us from God’s love.  (New birth as a child of God) Through Baptism, we are spiritually reborn. We become sons and daughters of God, welcomed into His family through this sacrament.  (The infusion of sanctifying grace) God fills our soul with His very being and love, giving us the grace we need to grow in holiness and to live our faith each day.  (Incorporation into the Church) Baptism makes us members of the Body of Christ, the Church. We are no longer alone, but united with the whole community of believers across the world and throughout history.
• Who may receive: Infants (with parents/godparents promising to raise them in the faith) and adults (after suitable preparation).

At St Paul’s: Parents are warmly invited to contact the parish to begin Baptism preparation. Our whole community holds every newly baptised person and their family in prayer, supporting them with joy as they take their first steps in the life of faith.

Confirmation

“Sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” (cf. Acts 8:14–17)

What it is: The Sacrament of Confirmation is the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in all His fullness, strengthening and completing the grace first received in Baptism. Here at St Paul’s, this sacred moment is a joyful milestone in a person’s faith journey. Through Confirmation, we are rooted more deeply as sons and daughters of God, united more firmly to Christ and to His Church, and empowered to live and share the Gospel with confidence, love, and joy within our parish and the wider community.

• Matter & Form: In the Sacrament of Confirmation, the bishop anoints each candidate with Sacred Chrism, the holy, perfumed oil blessed for this purpose and speaks the solemn words, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” In this anointing, the Holy Spirit strengthens the person with grace, courage, and joy, sending them out to live their faith fully in Christ.
• Minister: Ordinarily, Bishop Stephen will conduct the minister of Confirmation. However, in certain circumstances Fr. Stephen may confer the sacrament when delegated to do so. Whether celebrated by the Bishop Stephen or by Fr. Stephen, the same grace of the Holy Spirit is poured out, and the person is fully welcomed into the life and mission of the Church, including our own parish community here at St Paul’s.
• Effects: Through Confirmation, the Holy Spirit deepens His gifts within us, strengthens our bond with the Church, and gives us renewed courage to live, share, and defend our faith with love. It is a powerful moment of grace in which we are equipped to follow Christ more fully, both in our daily lives and within the parish of St Paul’s.
• Preparation: Preparation for Confirmation includes catechesis and prayer, supported by the presence of a sponsor, ideally a confirmed and practising Catholic who will walk alongside the candidate in faith. Here at St Paul’s, we see this as a meaningful journey of growth, encouragement, and deepening trust in God’s love.

The Holy Eucharist

“Source and summit of the Christian life.” (cf. John 6:51; 1 Corinthians 11:23–26)

What it is: The Eucharist is the true Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ, present under the appearances of bread and wine through the mystery of Transubstantiation. At every Mass, Christ’s one saving sacrifice on the Cross is made sacramentally present. When we receive Holy Communion, we are united with Him in the deepest way possible, and we are also drawn into loving communion with one another as the family of faith here at St Paul’s.

Scriptural roots: The Last Supper, when Jesus took bread and wine and said, “This is my body… this is my blood” (Matthew 26:26–29); Bread of Life discourse, when Jesus taught, “My flesh is true food and my blood is true drink” (John 6); The road to Emmaus, when the disciples recognised the risen Christ in “the breaking of the bread”(Luke 24:30–35).

• Matter & Form: For the celebration of the Eucharist, the Church requires bread made from wheat and wine made from grapes. During the consecration at Mass, Fr Stephen speaks the sacred words of institution given by Christ at the Last Supper. Through this moment of grace, the bread and wine become the true Body and Blood of the Lord, whom we receive with reverence and love here at St Paul’s.
• Minister:Only an ordained priest can consecrate the Eucharist, for it is through his ministry that the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. Holy Communion is then reverently distributed by Fr Stephen and by commissioned Eucharistic Ministers who assist him. In this way, we ensure that the Eucharist is always handled with deep reverence, honouring the real presence of Jesus whom we receive together here at St Paul’s.
• Effects: Through Holy Communion, we are united with Christ in the most intimate way. The Lord strengthens us with an increase of sanctifying grace, forgives our venial sins, and deepens the gift of charity within our hearts. We also grow in unity with one another as the family of faith here at St Paul’s, nourished and renewed by the same Body and Blood of the Lord.
• Preparation: To receive Holy Communion, we prepare our hearts by striving to live in a state of grace. The Church also asks us to observe the Eucharistic fast, normally one hour before receiving Communion, although this is not required of those who are sick or infirm. At St Paul’s, we support families and children through our First Holy Communion catechesis, helping young parishioners come to know Jesus in the Eucharist with joy, reverence, and confidence as they take this important step in their life of faith.

The Sacraments of Healing

Through Reconciliation and the Anointing of the Sick, Christ continues His work of mercy, forgiving sins, strengthening the suffering, and bringing peace to hearts.

Reconciliation / Penance (Confession)

“Peace be with you… whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven.” (John 20:19–23)

What it is:The Sacrament of Reconciliation is the sacred means by which sins committed after Baptism are forgiven through the ministry of the priest. In this healing encounter, we come before God with sincere contrition, confess our sins to Fr Stephen, receive absolution, and are restored to grace.

Scriptural roots: Christ entrusted the apostles with His authority to forgive sins, saying, “Receive the Holy Spirit… if you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven” (John 20:22–23) and promising, “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 16:19). Through the authority handed down in the Church, we are still able today to receive God’s mercy and forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, including here at St Paul’s, where the Lord continues to heal our hearts and restore peace.

• Elements: The Sacrament of Reconciliation involves a simple and prayerful journey of the heart. We begin with an examination of conscience, reflecting honestly on our thoughts, words, and actions. With contrition, we express true sorrow for our sins and our desire to turn back to God. We then make our confession, speaking our sins to the priest with trust and sincerity. Through absolution, Christ forgives us and restores us to grace. Finally, we complete satisfaction (penance) a prayer or act of charity offered in gratitude, helping us to grow in virtue and remain close to the Lord. Here at St Paul’s, this sacrament is always approached with compassion, respect, and gentleness, so that every person may experience the peace and healing that Christ longs to give.
• Minister: Fr Stephen warmly encourages everyone to come to the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly. You are very welcome to attend during the scheduled confession times, or if you prefer, you may contact Fr Stephen directly to arrange a personal appointment. However you come, the door of God’s mercy is always open here at St Paul’s.
• Effects: Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we receive the priceless gifts of God’s mercy: the forgiveness of our sins, the restoration of grace, and a renewed peace of conscience. The Lord also strengthens us spiritually, helping us to resist temptation and to walk forward with hope. Each confession is a moment of healing and new beginning.
• Frequency: Regular confession is warmly encouraged as a healthy and life-giving part of our spiritual journey. If someone becomes aware of mortal sin, they should come to the Sacrament of Reconciliation as soon as possible, trusting in the Lord’s boundless mercy and the peace He longs to restore. At St Paul’s, no one ever comes as a burden, every confession is a moment of grace, healing, and homecoming.

Anointing of the Sick

“Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the presbyters… and the prayer of faith will save the sick.” (James 5:14–15)

What it is: The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of comfort and strength for those who are seriously ill, preparing for major surgery, experiencing the frailty of age, or in danger due to sickness. In this moment of grace, the priest gently anoints the person with the Oil of the Sick and prays for healing, peace, and courage. Through this sacrament, Christ draws close to the one who is suffering, bringing mercy, hope, and the assurance that they are never alone. At St Paul’s, we are always ready to support anyone who requires the Anointing of the Sick, whether at home, in hospital, or in church.

Scriptural roots: In the Letter of James, the early Church is instructed to pray over the sick so that the Lord may raise them up (James 5). Throughout the Gospels, we witness Christ’s tender healing ministry, restoring strength, calming fear, forgiving sins, and bringing peace. This same care continues in the Church today. Through the Anointing of the Sick at St Paul’s, Christ reaches out with the same compassion, healing, and love that He showed during His earthly ministry.

• Minister: Only a priest can administer the Anointing of the Sick. Here at St Paul’s, this sacred ministry is carried out by Fr Stephen, who is always ready to respond with compassion and care to anyone in need of the sacrament. No one should ever hesitate to ask
• Effects: Anointing of the Sick, grants graces to those who are suffering. Providing strength to endure, peace and courage of heart, and forgiveness of sins when there is sincere contrition. At times, God also grants bodily healing, according to His loving will. When a person is nearing the end of life, this sacrament becomes a gentle preparation for the final journey, bringing consolation, hope, and the comforting presence of Christ. Here at St Paul’s, the Anointing of the Sick is always offered with tenderness and dignity, so that no one faces illness or frailty alone
• When to request: The Anointing of the Sick may be received at the onset of a serious illness, before major surgery, and again if a condition worsens or another illness develops. No one should ever feel reluctant to request this sacrament. If you or someone you know is in need of the Anointing of the Sick, please contact the parish office at St Paul’s as soon as possible. Alternatively, you are very welcome to speak directly with Fr Stephen. We are always here to offer prayer, support, and the loving care of our Church.

The Sacraments of Service

Matrimony and Holy Orders are the sacraments of vocation and mission. Through them, God calls individuals to a life of self-giving love, either in marriage or in ordained ministry, for the good of others and the building up of the Church.

Holy Matrimony

“A covenant of life and love, mirroring Christ and His Church.” (cf. Ephesians 5:25–32)

What it is: A marriage is a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman, freely given and freely received. It is ordered to the good of the spouses and to the procreation and education of children, forming a foundation of love, stability, and faith within the family. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that Christ has elevated this natural marriage to the dignity of a sacrament, pouring grace upon the couple so that their unity, fidelity, and love reflect His own love for the Church (CCC 1601–1604). Through this sacrament, husband and wife become a living sign of Christ’s presence in the world.

• Form: In the Sacrament of Matrimony, husband and wife give themselves to one another through the exchange of consent, freely, responsibly, and lovingly, in the presence of the Church’s minister and two witnesses. It is their consent that forms the marriage, and the Church receives it with joy. Here at St Paul’s, this moment is celebrated with reverence and warmth, as the couple stand before God and the community to begin their lifelong covenant of love in Christ.
• Minister: In the Sacrament of Matrimony, the spouses themselves are the ministers of the sacrament. By freely giving and receiving consent, they confer marriage upon one another. The priest or deacon acts as the Church’s witness, receiving their vows on behalf of the Church and blessing their union. Here at St Paul’s, we rejoice in every couple who comes before God to begin their married life, surrounded by the prayers and support of the parish community.
• Preparation: Preparation for marriage is a joyful and meaningful time at St Paul’s. Couples take part in parish marriage preparation, which helps them reflect on their shared vocation and deepen their understanding of the sacramental meaning of married life. The Church also ensures that both husband and wife are entering marriage freely and without any obstacles, so that their consent can be given with complete openness of heart. Through this time of reflection, prayer, and conversation, couples come to appreciate more deeply the beauty of Christian marriage and the grace that God pours into their union.
• Grace/Fruits: Through the Sacrament of Matrimony, God gives husband and wife the grace they need to live their calling with love and joy. He strengthens them to love faithfully, to forgive generously, to welcome and nurture new life, and to build a domestic Church within their home — a place where faith, prayer, and kindness are lived every day. Here at St Paul’s, we pray for all married couples and families, asking the Lord to continue to bless their homes with unity, patience, laughter, and enduring love.

If you are intending to be married at St Paul's RC Church, there are several important steps to follow. The process is very much pastoral rather than bureaucratic. At St Paul's we believe it is important to help couples prepare not only for the wedding day, but for a lifelong, grace-filled marriage. First you should should arrange an appointment to discuss your plans with Fr. Stephen as soon as possible, especially if a specific date is desired.

Fr. Stephen will:
• Agree an initial meeting.
• will Guid through the preparation process.
• Discuss suitable dates and times for the wedding.
• Discuss any further requirements

Holy Orders

“Configured to Christ the Servant and High Priest.”

What it is: Holy Orders is the sacrament through which the mission entrusted by Christ to the apostles continues in the Church today. It is expressed in three degrees of ministry, deacon, priest, and bishop. Through the laying on of hands and the prayer of consecration, the man being ordained is configured to Christ Himself and entrusted with His work: to teach the faith, to sanctify through the sacraments, and to shepherd God’s people with pastoral care and compassion. Here at St Paul’s, we hold the ordained in our prayers with gratitude, and we encourage all parishioners, especially our young people, to be open to God’s call, whatever form of loving service He may be inviting them to embrace.

• Scriptural roots: Jesus called the apostles to share in His mission (Mark 3:13–19), and the early Church continued this ministry through the laying on of hands (Acts 6:1–6). St Paul also speaks of this sacred gift handed on through ordination (1 Timothy 4:14).
• Minister: Only a bishop can confer the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Through his prayer and the laying on of hands, a man is ordained and entrusted with the ministry of the Church.
• Grace/Fruits: Through Holy Orders, those ordained receive a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit for service configured to Christ in a unique way, so that they may act in Christ’s name for the good of God’s people. According to the order he receives (deacon, priest, or bishop), they are entrusted with the authority to celebrate the sacraments and to serve the Church.
• Vocation: A call to Holy Orders is discerned together with the Church, never alone. It requires prayer, reflection, formation, and a genuine readiness to serve others with generosity of heart. The journey toward ordination is one of learning to listen deeply to God’s voice and to grow in faith, charity, and self-giving.
If you feel the Lord may be calling you to a vocation in the sacred priesthood, you are warmly encouraged to speak with Fr. Stephen here at St Paul’s RC Church. He will be glad to accompany you in prayer, discernment, and guidance. You may also contact the Diocesan Vocations Promoter at vocationspromoter@diocesehn.org.uk , who can offer further support and direction as you continue to listen for God’s call.