Sacraments

at St Hugh of Lincoln, Buckden Towers

The sacraments are at the heart of the life of the Church. Through them, Christ continues to be present and active among us—bringing grace, healing, and new life.

At St Hugh’s, Buckden Towers, we are here to accompany you and your family in preparing for and celebrating the sacraments. Whether you are seeking Baptism for your child, preparing for First Holy Communion or Confirmation, planning a wedding, or in need of pastoral care, you are warmly invited to contact the parish.

Baptism

Baptism is the beginning of the Christian life. Through Baptism, we become children of God and members of the Church.

How to arrange Baptism for your Child:
• Contact a priest
• Complete a Baptism enquiry form (available to download from the webpage or here) 
• Meet with the priest or attend a preparation session  

Preparation:
Parents are asked to attend a short preparation meeting to reflect on the meaning of Baptism and their role in handing on the faith to their child.

To find out more about the Sacrament of Baptism and arranging for your child to be baptised click this link.

For adults who are not baptised and wish to find out about becoming a Catholic.

If you are an adult who wishes to be baptised or find out more about becoming a Catholic please click this link.

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

The Eucharist is the “source and summit” of the Christian life. Preparation for First Holy Communion includes preparation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

How to enrol:
• Application forms are available to download here 
• Children are usually enrolled when they are in Year 3 or above 
• The closing date for enrolment is 31st August each year  

Preparation:
• Regular catechetical sessions (usually monthly) 
• Participation in Sunday Mass 
• Parent sessions to support family involvement  

Confirmation

Confirmation strengthens the grace of Baptism and equips us with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

How to enrol:
• Candidates must be baptised Catholics 
• Application forms are available to download here 
• Typically open to young people in Year 9 and above 
• The closing date for enrolment is 31st August each year  

Preparation:
• A structured parish programme (usually over several months) 
• Participation in parish life and Sunday Mass 
• Retreat experience and formation sessions  

Reconciliation (Confession)

In the Sacrament of Reconciliation, we experience God’s mercy and forgiveness and are restored to grace.

How to receive the Sacrament:
• Regular confession times are available in the parish. See service times.
• You may also contact the parish priest to make an appointment.

Marriage

Marriage is a sacrament of love and commitment.

How to arrange a wedding:
• Contact the parish priest at least 6 months in advance 
• Meet with the priest to begin preparation 
• Complete required documentation  

Preparation:
• Attendance at a Marriage Preparation Course.
• Meetings with the priest.
• Reflection on the vocation of Christian marriage.

Anointing of the Sick

This sacrament offers healing, strength, and peace to those who are seriously ill, elderly, or preparing for surgery.

How to arrange:
• Contact the parish priest at any time.
• In emergencies, please call the parish as soon as possible.

The sacrament may be celebrated at home, in hospital, or in church.

Holy Orders and Vocations

Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, men are ordained to serve the Church.

If you feel called to priesthood or religious life, please speak to a priest—guidance and support are always available.

Getting in Touch

If you would like to arrange any sacrament or find out more, please contact the parish office or speak to one of the priests after Mass. At St Hugh’s, Buckden Towers, we are here to support you at every stage of your journey in faith.