The aim of the Lighthouse Club is to provide an education programme to support parents in the religious education and faith development of their children during their formative years.

The Lighthouse Club strives to develop children's experience of faith in action

Lighthouse registration form.PDF
(UpdateD Sep-2009, 20kBytes)

Sunday Liturgy for children - Parish Centre

This is an integral part of the Sunday celebration of Mass when the key prayers and Bible stories are introduced to the children in an informal way.

The session lasts approx. 25 minutes and then the children bring their contribution to the altar in the Offertory procession.

The current age range is P1-P4 children but, if there is a sufficient number of pre-school children, accompanied by adults, a second group could be formed.

Two adults are needed to run a group, one as leader and the other as helper. It is not necessary to have any formal liturgical or educational background - what is needed is some practical experience of the Catholic faith. Volunteers are welcome and training and instruction can be provided.

Lighthouse classes - Parish Centre

The classes run from October with breaks for school holidays. Classes are grouped according to school age. For 2009/2010 these are:

•P3 Sunday 09.15-09:45 (Reconciliation preparation)

•P4 Saturday 9.15-10.00 (First Holy Communion preparation)

•P5/P6/P7 Tuesday 18.30-19.30

Classes are lead by a volunteer catechist but in order to comply with Child Protection Guidelines a second adult must be present. A parent helper rota is circulated each term.

Sacramental Preparation

It is recommended that children are at least seven years old at the start of instruction to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Preparation to receive Holy Eucharist generally starts the following year. Both classes are run every year. Preparation for Confirmation is offered when appropriate for older pupils.

Children's Masses

A children's Mass is celebrated occasionally and children encouraged to participate more fully in the celebration as readers/musicians/singers

Boys, and girls, are encouraged to train as altar servers after they have made their First Holy Communion.

Craft sessions

These are run, usually at the start of Advent and sometimes at other times in the year, for the enjoyment of all children attending the Lighthouse Club.

Social events

Popular events include sessions at the local Sports Centre, party nights and various fund raising events for charity. Parents also organise get-together social occasions.