1st Holy Communion

“I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if anyone eats of this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.” John 6:51

In the holy Eucharist we reach the high-point of our lives as Catholics for we receive the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Preparation for First Holy Communion involves parents, children and catechists, growing together in their knowledge and love for Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

“O Sacrament Most Holy, O Sacrament Divine, All Praise and All Thanksgiving Be Every Moment Thine.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION RETREAT – Saturday, March 9, 2024

Retreat begins with Mass at 9am, finished up at 12 noon

First Holy Communicants to be accompanied by at least one parent. Both parents are welcome to attend the retreat. We start with 9am Mass and finish by 12noon.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION – Saturday, May 11, 2024

10:30am Mass – Monday RE classes; Good Shepherd School; Atrium
1:30pm Mass – Sunday and Wednesday RE classes

Rehearsal – Friday, May 10 – please note new times

5-6:15pm – Monday RE classes; Good Shepherd School; other
6:30-7:45pm – Sunday and Wednesday RE classes

Preparation and practices for families:

Preparation for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion requires two years of faith formation. If First Holy Communion is received in the second grade, the child must have attended both first and second grade.

Families are highly encouraged to make their participation at Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation the central aspect of their child’s sacramental preparation. Parents are also asked to participate by:

Praying with your child, and helping your child memorize prayers. (Please see the booklet of “Basic Catholic Prayers and Lists” for First through Eighth Grades available on the parish website.)
Attending required parent meetings.
Attending required retreats with your child, if planned.
Working with your child to complete homework assignments (or check that homework is complete and accurate). Please let the catechist know if you have questions or difficulty.
Ensuring your children arrive to class prepared and on time each week and remain for the entire class period

RESOURCES

The Making of Communion Bread for Holy Communion – YouTube

The Miracle at Every Mass – Formed

Dress for First Communion

Girls
Girls should wear a white dress with sleeves, white socks or stockings, and white shoes. They may also wear a veil or a wreath of flowers on their heads. Please do not bring gloves or a purse to Mass.

Boys
Boys should wear dress slacks with a jacket or a suit, a collared dress shirt with a tie, and dress shoes.