Baptism, Holy Communion, Confirmation, Marriage

The Sacraments – Our Lady Help of Christians & St Lawrence, Olney
Roman Catholic Diocese of Northampton
Parish Sacramental Life & Guidance

Encounters with Christ Through the Holy Sacraments

“The Sacraments are powers that come forth from the Body of Christ, actions of the Holy Spirit at work in His Church.” — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1116

Parish Liturgical Schedule

Regular Mass & Confession Times

Our Lady Help of Christians & St Lawrence, Olney

Saturday

9.15am – Adoration & Confession

10.00am – Morning Mass

6.00pm – 6.25pm Confessions

6.30pm – Sunday Vigil Mass

Sunday

10.00am – 10.25am Confessions

10.30am – Holy Mass

* Coffee & Tea after Mass in Parish Hall every first Sunday of the month

Weekdays

Mon & Tue: 9.15am Adoration and Confession | 10am Mass

* Coffee & Tea after Tue Mass in Parish Hall every week

Wed: No Parish Mass

Thu Morning: 10.00 Mass

Thu Evening: 6.00pm Adoration and Confession | 6.45pm Mass

Fri: 10.00am Service of Word & Communion

Sacramental Preparation & Guidelines

The Seven Sacraments

Whether you are seeking Holy Baptism for your child, preparing for First Communion or Confirmation, planning a Catholic marriage, or requesting the Anointing of the Sick, we welcome you to our parish community.

Sacrament of Initiation

Holy Baptism

Gateway to Life in the Spirit

Baptism is the foundation of the whole Christian life and the doorway to the Church. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as children of God.

Infants: Parents must attend preparation sessions before date confirmation.
Godparents: At least one practicing Catholic, Confirmed, aged 16+.
Adults: Welcomed through the RCIA / Order of Christian Initiation.
Sacrament of Initiation

First Holy Communion

The Source & Summit of Catholic Life

In the Eucharist, we receive the real Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ under the appearance of bread and wine.

Eligibility: Children in School Year 2 (ages 6-7) and above.
Preparation: Annual parish programme including First Reconciliation.
Commitment: Regular Sunday Mass attendance with family is essential.
Sacrament of Initiation

Confirmation

Sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit

Confirmation completes baptismal grace, strengthening candidates with the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit to live as mature witnesses for Christ.

Youth Candidates: Year 8 and above (ages 12-13+).
Celebrant: Administered by the Bishop of Northampton.
Elements: Catechesis sessions, retreat, Saint name, and Sponsor.
Sacrament of Service

Holy Matrimony

Covenant of Faithful & Lifelong Love

The matrimonial covenant establishes a holy partnership between a man and a woman, ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation of children.

Notice Required: At least 6 months’ notice before fixing a wedding date.
Preparation: Mandatory Marriage Preparation Course (e.g. SmartLoving).
Paperwork: Canonical Freedom-to-Marry & Civil registrar notice.
Sacrament of Healing

Reconciliation

Confession & Divine Mercy

In Confession, we encounter God’s infinite mercy. The priest, acting in the person of Christ, grants absolution for sins committed after Baptism.

Regular Times: Saturdays 6.00pm–6.25pm & before weekday Masses.
Adoration: Thursdays 6.00pm & Mon/Tue/Sat 9.15am.
By Appointment: Speak with Fr. Daniel before/after Mass.
Sacrament of Healing

Anointing of the Sick

Strength, Comfort & Healing

Confers special grace on Catholics facing grave illness, frailty, major surgery, or old age, uniting their suffering to Christ’s Passion.

Who May Receive: Those seriously ill, facing operations, or frail.
Home & Hospital Visits: Fr. Daniel is available for home visitation.
Emergencies: Call 01234 711212 anytime for urgent sick calls.
Parish Journey

Steps to Receiving a Sacrament at Olney

A simple roadmap for candidate families and individuals

1

Contact the Parish Office & Initial Registration

Reach out to parish secretary Denise Wallinger or complete our online inquiry form below. Please submit child birth details, baptismal status, and parish membership details.

2

Meeting with Fr. Daniel Rooke

Meet with Fr. Daniel for a brief welcoming consultation to discuss preparation schedules, expectations, and any canonical requirements.

3

Catechetical Preparation & Sunday Mass Attendance

Participate in required parish preparation classes (First Communion, Confirmation, Baptism talks, or Marriage preparation). Regular attendance at weekend Holy Mass (Saturday 6.30pm Vigil or Sunday 10.30am) is integral.

4

Liturgical Celebration

Celebrate the sacrament with the parish community in our church on West Street, receiving God’s abundant grace and blessing.

Pastoral Team

Parish Clergy & Administrative Staff

We are here to help guide you and your family.

Rev. Fr. Daniel Rooke

Parish Priest

Responsible for overall spiritual leadership, Holy Mass, Confessions, Marriage preparation, and pastoral care.

Deacon Peter Griffin

Parish Deacon

Assisting with liturgical celebrations, baptisms, preaching, and outreach to the sick and elderly.

Contact via Parish Office

Denise Wallinger

Parish Secretary

Handling sacramental bookings, parish records, certificates, and general administrative inquiries.

Help & Advice

Frequently Asked Questions