Saint Edward the Confessor, Leicester

Parish life

The parish offers First Holy Communion preparation for children. The parish's First Confession catechism is designed for children typically around the age of seven to nine.

The parish offers Confirmation preparation for young people. Young people preparing for Confirmation use My Confirmation Catechism with twelve short catechism-led conversations.

The parish offers a Catholic Faith Online Course as a basic introduction to Catholic beliefs and practices. The parish welcomes conversations with those who believe God may be calling them to the priesthood, permanent diaconate or religious life. Information about Children's Liturgy and other provision for families is available through the parish Mass page.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish communities of St Mary's, St John Bosco and St Edward's offer the Anointing of the Sick as a sacrament of healing, strength and hope. If admitted to hospital, parishioners are asked to let the hospital chaplaincy know they are Catholic. In serious or urgent situations, the parish asks to be contacted as soon as possible.

A Baptism Preparation App is available for those who prefer an app. Before the Baptism, there is normally a final parish conversation to answer questions and check practical arrangements.

Sacramental preparation in the parish is centred upon faith, understanding, readiness and accompaniment, rather than simply completing a timetable. Preparation in the parish is personal, catechism-led and adapted to the age, circumstances and sacramental history of the person.

Pastoral care in the parish may include visiting the sick or housebound. Pastoral care includes support for those in hospital or care homes. Pastoral care includes accompaniment in times of grief. Pastoral care includes prayer and conversation during personal difficulty.

Pastoral care includes support for those returning to the practice of the faith. Care is always offered personally and discreetly, never as a programme or obligation.

The parish uses a preparation companion containing 24 short Catholic conversations. Most conversations can be used in about 20–30 minutes. The parish provides a substantial Catholic Faith Online Course for anyone who wants to explore the faith in greater depth. Confirmation preparation in the parish is personal, catechism-led and based upon understanding, desire and readiness rather than simply age or school year.