First Communion & First Reconciliation
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Formal preparation for the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation is primarily integrated in our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd religious education program for children. This unique expression of catechesis is a holistic approach to engage our children in the faith of the Church. Thus, preparing a child for Eucharist is not a one-time event. If you are an adult interested in coming into Full Communion with the Catholic Church please visit our RCIA page.
Though the normal age for receiving the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation is seven (second grade,) readiness for the reception of these sacraments is based according to the desire for the sacrament and the child’s personal maturity. Our expectation is that your child be enrolled in our children’s religious education program, at minimum, one year prior and one year following your child’s reception of these sacraments. During monthly one-hour group parent/child Sacramental Formation sessions during October–April, parents and children will hear Scripture, CGS presentations, and be given the practical knowledge needed to receive the two aforementioned sacraments. These times of catechesis and prayer will become sacred memories for you and your child. Your child’s involvement in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd during the years following First Communion allows him or her to return to and enlarge upon themes already introduced while allowing other themes to mature according to the new needs of the emerging developmental period of the child. Note: Parents who wish to bring a child forward to receive First Reconciliation and First Communion, should be sure to enroll their child in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in the year prior (if not before). For more information or to register, contact Caitlin Bedwell: [email protected]. |
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