Procedures on this page are general, not yet parish-specific. The notice periods, documents and preparation classes described below follow the usual practice of the Archdiocese of Madras–Mylapore. Please confirm the details with the parish office before making arrangements.
Baptism is the door into the life of Christ and into the Church. Parents bringing an infant for baptism undertake to raise the child in the faith, helped by godparents who share that responsibility.
How to arrange it
- Give notice at the parish office at least two weeks in advance.
- Bring the child’s birth certificate and the parents’ marriage record.
- At least one godparent must be a practising Catholic who has received Confirmation; a letter from their own parish may be required.
- Parents and godparents attend a short preparation session.
Baptisms are usually celebrated on Sundays. The parish office will confirm the day and time.
Children of the parish are prepared for their first reception of the Eucharist through the catechism programme, usually over two years, and receive together at a parish Mass in the Easter season.
How to arrange it
- Enrol the child in catechism at the start of the year.
- Bring the child’s baptism certificate at enrolment.
- Regular attendance at classes and at Sunday Mass is expected.
- Children make their first confession before their first communion.
In Confirmation the baptised are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and take up the responsibilities of an adult member of the Church. It is conferred by the bishop, or by a priest he delegates.
How to arrange it
- Young people prepare through the senior catechism programme.
- A sponsor is chosen, who must be a confirmed practising Catholic.
- Adults who were never confirmed are very welcome to prepare — please speak to the parish priest, who will arrange it discreetly.
However long it has been, and whatever you are carrying, you will not be scolded here. The priest is bound to absolute secrecy, without exception.
When
- Saturdays before evening Mass.
- Before Sunday Masses, as time allows.
- At any time by appointment — simply ask.
- Extra times are arranged during Lent and Advent.
See the Mass timings page for current times, and please confirm with the office.
If you have forgotten how to begin, say so — the priest will lead you through it.
The Mass is the centre of the parish’s week and of its whole life. Holy Communion is brought to the sick and housebound of the parish on request — please let the office know of anyone who would welcome a visit.
Eucharistic adoration is held weekly, and Mass intentions may be requested for the sick, the departed or in thanksgiving.
A couple marrying in the Catholic Church make a covenant before God and the community. The Church asks for time and preparation, not to create obstacles, but because the promise is a serious one.
How to arrange it
- Contact the parish priest at least three months before the intended date — earlier is better, and before booking a hall.
- Both parties bring recent baptism and confirmation certificates.
- A pre-marriage preparation course is required; the archdiocese runs these regularly.
- Banns are published in the parishes of both parties before the wedding.
- Where one party is not Catholic, or is from another parish or diocese, additional permissions are needed — allow extra time.
This sacrament is for anyone seriously ill, facing surgery, or weakened by age — not only for the dying. It may be received more than once.
In an emergency, telephone at once, at any hour of the day or night: 044 2554 6050. Do not wait until morning. A priest will come.
For a hospital admission or a planned operation, let the office know and a visit will be arranged. Communion for the sick can be brought regularly to those who cannot come to church.
If you are wondering whether God may be calling you to the priesthood or to religious life, the first step is simply to talk to someone. Speak to the parish priest in confidence; he can put you in touch with the archdiocesan vocations director or with a religious congregation.
Please also pray for vocations from this parish — that is everyone’s part.
At the time of death
Funerals
When a death occurs, telephone the parish as soon as you are able, at any hour: 044 2554 6050. The parish will help with the funeral Mass, the burial and the prayers in the home, and will guide you through what needs to be done.
The dead of the parish are remembered at Mass, and particularly on All Souls’ Day, 2 November, with the blessing of graves.
Not sure where to start?
Ring the parish office, or come and find the priest after Sunday Mass. No question is too small.