Eucharist – Holy Communion

The Eucharist is the ‘Source and summit of the Church’s Life’ according to Vatican II. (Quoted in: Catechism of the Catholic Church 1324).

During the Mass, through the action of the priest and the Holy Spirit, the host becomes the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ. Our Church regards the Eucharist as the ‘…source and summit of the Christian life.’ (CCC 1324 – LG11)

The faithful receive the Eucharist mostly in the context of the celebration of Mass – they go to receive Holy Communion. Mass is celebrated at least once each day at St Chad’s. Mass times are here.

If Holy Communion is received outside of the celebration of Mass it is usually because the person receiving is not able to attend the church – most commonly because of illness or infirmity. In these cases a priest, deacon or Special Minister is permitted to take the consecrated host to the person’s home and they receive Communion where they are.

If you are someone who wishes to receive Holy Communion but are unable to attend church please contact the parish office who will pass your details on to the Special Ministers co-ordinators. (You can make an arrangement for someone else if they asked you to.) 

    FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

Parents of children in Year 3 and above at Primary School who wish their child to receive Holy Communion for the first time are invited to complete this form and return it to the Presbytery on or before Monday 29th November 2021. Alternatively, parents can pick up a hard copy of the form from the church porch. Applications received after this date will be deferred to the 2023 programme.

The programme consists of Saturday morning sessions for the children (and occasionally parents), family activities and parents’ meetings. Children receive the Eucharist for the first time at First Communion Masses during the summer of 2022.

Adults preparing to receive Holy Communion for the first time are invited to join the RCIA group – see Baptism page.


Silent Adoration of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament is available in the Church at these times ( see here).