Sacred Heart Parish Holds Sensory‑Friendly First Holy Communion for Children with Special Needs

^{Source: Diocese of Nottingham}
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On Saturday July 12 a dedicated First Holy Communion Mass was held for children with sensory needs at Sacred Heart Parish, in Leicester, Nottingham Diocese.

Thanks to the efforts and expertise of volunteers Martina, Mary, Claire and Fr David Cain, four children with sensory needs were able to make their First Holy Communion in a bespoke setting, which catered to their needs.

Fr David Cain first began celebrating Masses for children with sensory needs, at The Church on Oakwood in Derby, after he was approached by staff from St Mary’s school who saw the need for a liturgy in which children and their families could be more at ease.

Since moving to serve the Holy Family community in Leicester, Fr David was approached by a parent, who wanted their child to make their First Holy Communion but who had concerns about their sensory needs.

From this conversation, along with the expertise and time of talented local teachers, a sensory Friendly First Holy Communion programme was put together and launched in January at Sacred Heart Primary School.

The sessions took place on Saturday mornings at 11am and were followed by a Sensory Friendly Mass at 11:30 for children of all ages.

The preparatory classes covered the themes of God’s Family; Mary’s Yes to God; Lent and Easter as well including the opportunity to prepare for First Confession, in a more relaxed format.

The First Holy Communion Mass gave space for children to run around, participate in relevant liturgical activities and use games and toys throughout. They were invited to use instruments to rattle or shake during the consecration in place of the usual bells.

Volunteers with experience with children who have sensory needs were on hand to support families throughout the Mass and there was a volunteer who used sign language, for the children to join in with, while listening to the hymns via YouTube.

Reflecting on the Mass, Fr David Cain said: “I loved it! It was fantastic! The volunteers supporting the families were very happy and the families were glowing because they could relax and enjoy the celebration of their child’s First Holy Communion.”

If you live in the Leicester area and your child has sensory needs and is hoping to make their First Holy Communion next year, the first preparation class is at Sacred Heart School on January 18^th. Visit: https://holyfamily-leicester.rcdon.uk/ for more info.

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