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Priestly ordinations at the cathedral on Saturday 21 November 2026. All are welcome.
Pastoral qain Archdiocesan Board

How do you prepare a child for first confession?

Ibrahim Audu
Verified by registerPosted 26 October 2026, 16:52

My daughter starts First Holy Communion classes next month, and her first confession comes before Easter. She is eight and already worried about it.

I remember being frightened at her age and do not want the same for her. What helped your children? Did you practise at home, or leave it to the catechists? #confession #firstcommunion #children

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5 replies

MemberParish Priest · Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Larkmere
26 October 2026 · 17:52

Bring her to see the confessional on a weekday after the morning Mass, when it is empty. Let her sit where she will sit and open the door herself. Most of the fear goes once the room is ordinary.

Tell her the priest is glad every time someone comes. That is true.

Amens and prayers17ReplyCopy link
Ibrahim Auduin reply to Member
26 October 2026 · 18:52

Thank you, Father. We will come on Wednesday.

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Theresa UdohTeacher · Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Larkmere
26 October 2026 · 18:52

In class we use a short examination of conscience written for children, and we practise the words together. She will not be the only one who is nervous, and that helps too.

Amens and prayers7ReplyCopy link
Francis OnuohaVerified by register
26 October 2026 · 19:52

We wrote her three things on a small card the night before. She held it the whole time and never needed to read it.

Amens and prayers7ReplyCopy link
Ruth AuduVerified by register
26 October 2026 · 20:52

Go to confession yourself the same week, and let her see you queue. Children copy what we do more than what we say.

Amens and prayers8ReplyCopy link

Be charitable. You are speaking to a brother or sister in Christ.

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