The Eucharist in the Catholic Church is a sacrament celebrated as "the source and summit" of the Christian life. The Eucharist is celebrated daily during the celebration of Mass, the eucharistic liturgy.
Preparation for Reconciliation and Eucharist for Children
When children reach second grade the Church invites them to approach the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. A child’s formation for these sacraments takes place within their family and the parish community. Children are prepared not only for their first experience of these sacraments, but for a lifetime of being forgiven in the sacrament of Reconciliation and being fed at the Eucharist.
Sacramental Programs for First Reconciliation and First Communion are celebrated in Grade 2 but because there is so much material to learn and study, student preparation starts in Grade 1. All children in Grade 1 must participate in the program in order to receive the Sacraments in Grade 2.
Registration materials for the sacraments will be sent to all parish families with children in second grade. Parents attend one parent Meeting in January, which provides them with a renewed understanding of the sacraments, materials to use with their children and suggestions for family activities. Parents and children gather on a Saturday morning in Lent to celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation. The celebration of First Eucharist takes place at parish Masses during the Easter season. On the second Sunday in May we have May Crowning in the St. Agnes Grotto. The First Eucharist children and their families are invited to join the procession immediately following the first Mass that morning.
Parents of older children who are in need of preparation for sacraments (Baptism, Reconciliation or Eucharist) are asked to contact the Christian Formation Office. Sacramental preparation will be designed according to the guidelines of the church as well as the needs of the family.