First Holy Communion

The reception of Holy Communion for the first time is the greatest joy in the life of a soul.  For this reason, it is called a "foretaste of heaven".  First communion gives to a person, in the state of grace, an immediate union with God in a physical and sacramental way by receiving the very real presence, body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ.  The Eucharist nourishes the soul, strengthens it and orientes it to know, love and serve God. 

The following questions may be helpful for parents to determine a child's readiness for the Sacrament of First Holy Communion:

Does the child understand that the Eucharist is the real Body and Blood of Jesus Christ and manifest a desire to recieve Him?

Does the child know the difference between the Eucharist and ordinary bread?

Does the child participate actively and consciously at Mass each week?

Does the child display an attitude of reverence at Mass?

Does the child know the proper way(s) to receive communion on the tongue or on the hand?

Does the child know how to prepare for Mass and make an act of thanksgiving?

How is the Sacrament celebrated for my Child?

During the preparation for First Confession, the Director of Faith Formation will hold parent meetings in which the dates for First Holy Communion will be announced.  The celebrations will take place on Saturday and parents will be invited to sign up for the dates and times.  The children process into Mass with their classmates, sit together and they will receive in the same order.  This occurs after Easter and typically in the month of May.