The Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of the entire Christan life.
In the Eucharist Jesus truly gives Himself to us in His Body that contains His very self
and His Blood that pours His life out for us.
The Eucharist is a profound mystery of God's love, not a symbol, but a precious gift.
Children must have reached the age of reason, typically eight years old, in order to receive the Eucharist.
They should understand that the Host truly is Jesus's Body given up for us, and that the Chalice contains His Blood, poured out for us..
The child’s readiness for the celebration of the sacrament is to be determined by the child, the parent, and the pastor or his delegate.
To prepare to receive Holy Communion, the person should present him-/herself for the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) in order to be forgiven serious sins.
Typically, children in second grade receive First Holy Communion, assuming they have been particpating in Faith Formation according to schedule. Baptized children beyond second grade who wish to receive First Communion will need to participate in special instruciton in addition to their enrollment in Faith Formation.
Those who have not been baptised will receive their sacraments through the RCIA program. Parents need to contact the religious education office for more information.