🙏 Congratulations to Our First Communicants 2026 🙏
Congratulations to all the Primary 4 pupils from our parish schools, Derrychrin PS and Ballylifford PS, who made their First Holy Communion and received the Sacrament of the Eucharist yesterday morning.
The children were outstanding throughout the ceremony, participating beautifully in their readings, prayers, responses, singing and music. It was a joyful and memorable occasion as parents and families gathered to celebrate this important milestone in the children’s faith journey. We extend our sincere thanks to Fr. Donnelly for celebrating such a special Mass. In his homily he praised both schools and how they help support the children to grow holistically through the curriculum, sports, the arts and through our faith. Fr Donnelly highlighted the importance of our Catholic ethos, how the children learn something new each day and how they learn about God his presence, care and love.
A heartfelt thank you to our P4 teacher Miss McGuigan, along with our classroom assistants Maeve and Lisa, for preparing and supporting the children so well and in creating the wonderful artwork displayed in the chapel and school. We also extend our thanks to Mrs Muldoon and the Primary 4 pupils of Ballylifford PS in making the ceremony so special.
We also wish to thank Miss Hughes for her excellent preparation of the choir. Well done to our P7 guitarists and the P4 tin whistle group for their beautiful musical contributions. A special word of thanks to Donal Canavan for his expertise and dedication in leading the instrumental group during their weekly practices.
Our appreciation extends to all staff who have supported the children along their faith journey to date.
We are very grateful to Philomena McGuckin for leading the children in their preparation for the Sacraments through the All God’s Children programme, and for guiding the altar servers who carried out their roles so reverently. Special thanks also to Geraldine Mullan and Philomena for their work in coordinating the programme across both parish schools.
Thank you to our Mass servers for their excellent participation, and to John O’Neill (Sperrins Photography) for capturing such special memories for families to treasure.
We also acknowledge Sacristan John Wilson for his dedication in maintaining the church and facilitating all rehearsals, and the Altar Society for preparing the chapel so beautifully with floral displays.
As a school community, we are immensely proud of all the children. We hope they enjoy a wonderful weekend celebrating with their families and creating lasting memories in the beautiful weather.
