The formal preparation of children for the Sacrament of Holy Communion is in conjunction with First Reconciliation/Penance and occurs when they are seven years old, and in the second grade. It also involves ongoing participation in the regular parish Religious Education program provided for all families and children. In addition, there are specific activities in preparation for each sacrament including work at home and in the parish. Parental involvement is essential including two parent/child workshops.

Your child must already be baptized to participate in this sacramental formation; therefore, a Baptismal certificate is required at registration.  Also, the student must attend 2 consecutive years of Faith Formation Classes before they may receive the sacraments - that means First Grade RE and Second Grade RE Classes.

2nd Year Sacrament Preparation - Important Sacramental Dates:

1st Reconciliation (a.k.a. Confession, Penance)

1 st Eucharist -

• 1st Eucharist Parent/Child Workshop - This will be on-line or pick up packet, probably soon after Easter.
• The Celebration of the Sacrament of Eucharist  - At all masses on weekend of April 25/26 or when determined it is safe.

 

Parent/Child Preparation ideas for at Home: 

All parents are given resources to support preparation of the sacraments in the home during the 1st and 2nd year.

• All Children must learn these basic prayers during the 1st year. sacrament preparation prayers for children
• Parent/Child Preparation in the Home for Reconciliation 
  • An Examination of Conscience for Children – with directions on how to go to Confession and an Act of Contrition
  • Examination of Conscience for kids (with Act of Contrition and Guide to Confession)
  • Sacrament of Reconciliation Brochure – Children  – How to go to confession brochure – with an examination of conscience! (older children)
  • Youtube Videos you can watch with your children – Why don’t you watch the videos first to see which one(s) your children might learn from the best!
    • Busted Halo – Sacrament of Reconciliation
    • That Catholic Show – I confess
    • Examination of Conscience – Video
    • How to go to 1st Reconciliation – Great How to Video
    • A Great Video for preparing Children’s 1st Reconciliation
• Parent/Child Preparation in the Home for Eucharist
  • sacrament preparation prayers for children – Basic Prayers your children must learn!
  • dress code 1st communion
  • Youtube Videos you can watch with your children – Why don’t you watch the videos first to see which one(s) your children might learn from the best!
    • Busted Halo – Holy Eucharist
    • Making of the Eucharist Hosts (unconsecrated) – How do the communion wafers get made?
    • Grace in the Real Presence
    • Remembrance – Meditation Worship Song by Matt Mahr
  • For a Parent’s better understanding of the Real Presence, we suggest watching the following videos:
    • Busted Halo: Advanced 201 Eucharist
    • Fr. Barron’s – Real Presence Discourse
    • More of Fr. Barron on the Real Presence
  • Loyola Press Website on Eucharist for Family has some great family insights on Eucharist and family….check it out!

 
SACRAMENT Preparation for OLDER CHILDREN - 3rd grade and up!