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“This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.”
The sacrament of Holy Communion, also known as the Eucharist, is a sacred and joyful occasion not only for the child receiving it, but for the entire parish community. At Old St. Mary’s, First Communion is celebrated within a Sunday Mass because, as with baptisms, the whole community has a role in welcoming our young people to the Table of the Lord.
Children prepare for both First Reconciliation and First Communion through a full year of sacramental preparation for each sacrament, whether enrolled in Sunday Faith Formation or attending Old St. Mary’s School. First Reconciliation is typically celebrated in the winter, while First Communion often takes place in the spring or summer, depending on the child’s readiness.
Children usually prepare for First Reconciliation during second grade and receive the sacrament at the end of second grade or during third grade. Preparation for First Communion typically takes place during third grade, with the sacrament received at the end of third grade or during fourth grade.
Candidates for either sacrament must be enrolled in the parish school or Sunday Faith Formation, and must have completed at least one prior year of formal faith formation before beginning sacramental preparation. For example, a child preparing for First Reconciliation in third grade must have been enrolled in Sunday Faith Formation or the parish school in first grade. If a child has not completed the required year of prior formation, families must meet with the Director of Lifelong Faith Formation to discuss options for supplementary preparation or possibly delaying the sacrament.
For questions about First Reconciliation and First Communion, please contact Elise Flick, Director of Lifelong Faith Formation, at elise@oldstmarys.com. You may also reach her by calling the parish office at 312-922-3444.
Order of Christian Initiation
(312) 922-3444