Ard Rí CNS is a multi-denominational school. There is no sacramental preparation at Ard Rí CNS during the school day. Roughly half of our pupils receive the Catholic Sacraments of Penance, Communion and Confirmation. These children attend after-school classes in St Oliver’s Church, Blackcastle. We work in co-operation with Fr Sebi, the Catechetical Volunteers in St Mary’s Parish and our own Catholic parents to support our Catholic children receive their sacraments.

The Parish Catechetical Programme (PCP) will begin in the coming month. PCP prepares children in schools, which are not under the patronage of the Bishop of Meath for the Sacraments. It is a 2-year programme to prepare for the Sacraments of First Penance and First Holy Communion or for the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Parents of children in 2nd Class or above are welcome to register their children for Year 1 of the programme to prepare for the sacraments of First Penance and First Holy Communion. Children in 4th Class or above may apply now for Year 1 of the programme to prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation. Enrolment forms can be collected from the parish office or the school office. If you return the form to us we will pass them on to Fr Sebi directly.

If your child has completed the Year 1 of either programme you can now register for the year 2 of the Programme to prepare for the Sacraments of First Penance & First Holy Communion or for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Those wishing to join Year II of either programme must apply for admission. Enrolment forms can be collected from the parish office or the school office. If you return the form to us we will pass them on to Fr Sebi directly.

A meeting will take place on Tuesday 10th October at 6:15pm in St Oliver’s Church with parents and guardians who have enrolled in the 2023-2024 Programme.