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Sacramental Life

The Seven Sacraments

Encountering Christ’s grace, healing, and presence at every stage of life in Worth Abbey Parish. Click on any sacrament below to view details, course preparation, and contacts.

1. Holy Baptism

The first sacrament of initiation through which a person enters into the life of Christ and becomes part of the Church.

📋 View Preparation Course, Details & Contacts

Baptism is offered for families in Worth Abbey Parish and for regular parishioners.

Preparation Course for Parents

The parish offers a dedicated Baptism Preparation Course for parents-to-be and parents. The three sessions cover:

  • The Gift of Baptism & The Domestic Church
  • The Role of Parents, Godparents, and Living the Faith
  • The Rite & Its Symbols

Baptism Catechists: Jackie Mallinder & Paul Mallinder (parish@worth.org.uk).
(Adults seeking Baptism prepare through the RCIA journey led by Fr Paul or Fr Rod.)

How to Take the First Step:

Say hello to Fr Paul or Fr Rod after Sunday Mass, or contact the Parish Office to register your details for the next course at parish@worth.org.uk or 01342 710313.

2. Reconciliation (Confession)

Receiving God’s loving forgiveness and being reconciled with Him.

📋 View Confession Times & Preparation Details

⛪ Confession Times

Available in the confessional at the back of the Abbey Church on Sundays from 8.45am to 9.15am, or by appointment with Fr Paul or Fr Rod.

Preparation

Children prepare as members of the Family Formation All Saints Group. Adults prepare through the RCIA course.

👥 Family Formation Lead: Emily Coughlan (parish@worth.org.uk)
👤 All Saints Catechist: Christie Grieve (parish@worth.org.uk)

3. Holy Communion (Eucharist)

Receiving Jesus made present to us in a special way as we share in His saving sacrifice sacramentally.

📋 View Preparation, Housebound Visits & Prayers

First Holy Communion Preparation

Children prepare as members of the Family Formation All Saints Group. Adults prepare through the RCIA course.

👥 Family Formation Lead: Emily Coughlan (parish@worth.org.uk)
👤 All Saints Catechist: Christie Grieve (parish@worth.org.uk)

Holy Communion for the Sick & Housebound

Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministers can take Holy Communion to parishioners who are ill or unable to attend Mass. Contact the Parish Office at parish@worth.org.uk to request a home visit.

Act of Spiritual Communion:

“My Jesus, I believe that You are present in the Most Holy Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You. Amen.”

4. Confirmation

Strengthened by the gift of the Holy Spirit to complete Christian initiation and live more fully as a disciple of Christ.

📋 View Youth Preparation & Details

Young parishioners prepare for Confirmation as members of the Family Formation Inspired Group (which replaces our former Confirmation programme). Regular membership is expected for those seeking the sacrament. Adults prepare through the RCIA course.

👥 Family Formation Lead: Emily Coughlan (parish@worth.org.uk)

5. Holy Matrimony (Marriage)

A lifelong covenant of love and faithfulness, making visible Christ’s love for the Church and the world.

📋 View Eligibility, Course Details & Contacts

Eligibility Criteria

  • Living within the parish boundary (West Hoathly, Sharpthorne, Balcombe, Crawley Down, Turners Hill).
  • Regular parishioner at Worth Abbey Parish.
  • Former student of Worth School or member of the Lay Community of Saint Benedict.

⚠️ Minimum of 1 year’s notice is required prior to marriage at Worth.

Marriage Preparation Course

Couples complete 4 diocesan preparation sessions covering: Faith and Marriage, Married Life Beyond the Wedding Day, Loving Relationships, and Living the Sacrament.

Marriage Catechists: Ann McCarthy & Charles McCarthy (parish@worth.org.uk).

6. Anointing of the Sick

Bringing comfort, peace, strength, and Christ’s healing grace to those facing serious illness, major surgery, or the frailty of age.

📋 View Request Instructions & Contact

Through the laying on of hands and anointing with holy oil, the sacrament provides spiritual strength and Christ’s healing presence.

📞 Request an Anointing: Contact Fr Paul or Fr Rod at parish@worth.org.uk or call 01342 710313.

7. Holy Orders & Vocations

Prayerfully exploring whether God may be calling you to serve Him as a Priest, Permanent Deacon, or in Religious Life.

📋 View Discernment Steps & Vocations Contacts

Steps in Discernment

  • Pray & Listen: Spend regular time with God in prayer, Scripture, and Mass.
  • Reflect & Seek Guidance: Speak openly with a priest or spiritual director.
  • Take a Next Step: Contact diocesan vocations directors or religious communities to explore further without pressure.

Contacts