First Communion

Two of the most important and significant rites of passage for a young Catholic child are the Sacraments of Reconciliation (Confession) and Eucharist (Communion). In the Religious Education Program, there are three years of preparation (Kindergarten, Grade 1, and Grade 2) for these sacraments. Preparation for First Reconciliation is in first grade with reception of the sacrament in November of second grade. Preparation for First Eucharist is in second grade with reception in April. There is the option in second grade to receive individually with the family at a parish liturgy or to participate in the group celebration with classmates. Older students, who did not receive their First Reconciliation or First Communion by second grade, may receive (when they are properly prepared) the sacraments at any weekend Mass the family chooses. Parents of older students meet with the religious education director to be involved in the at-home preparation. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the First Communion Liturgy originally scheduled for May 2, 2020, was postponed until August 29 with safety protocols in place. Even Pope Francis had to wear his mask! Some of the second graders chose to wait to celebrate their First Communion with this year's second graders on May 1, 2021. Below are some pictures from the 2020 liturgy. Please click on the thumbnails for larger images. You can also enjoy a Youtube video of the 2020 liturgy at https://youtu.be/9j2bLdnJ6yY.