Holy Eucharist
"I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever." — John 6:51
The Source and Summit
The Holy Eucharist is the sacrament in which Jesus Christ gives his Body and Blood, himself, for us, so that we too might give ourselves to him in love and be united with him in Holy Communion. In this sacrament, we participate in the very sacrifice of Christ on the cross and receive the spiritual nourishment for our journey of faith.
"The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life." — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324
Who Receives Communion?
Baptized Catholics in the state of grace
Children who have completed First Holy Communion preparation
Those who have observed the Eucharistic fast (1 hour before Communion)
Catholics free from mortal sin (Confession required if in mortal sin)
Requirements for First Communion
Baptism certificate (for parish records)
Completion of preparation classes
Prior reception of First Reconciliation
Regular Mass attendance and participation in parish life
The Real Presence of Christ
Understanding the profound mystery of the Eucharist
True Body and Blood
Under the appearances of bread and wine, Christ is truly present; body, blood, soul and divinity.
Sacrifice of the Mass
The Eucharist makes present Christ's one sacrifice on Calvary in an unbloody manner.
Communion of Believers
Receiving Communion unites us more deeply with Christ and with the entire Church.
First Communion Preparation Journey
A step-by-step guide for children and families
Registration & Orientation
Register for First Communion classes early in the school year and attend the parent orientation meeting to understand the preparation process.
Weekly Preparation
Children attend weekly preparation sessions focusing on the Mass, prayers and understanding Jesus' real presence in the Eucharist.
First Reconciliation
Children receive the Sacrament of Penance before First Communion, learning about God's mercy and forgiveness.
Retreat & Rehearsal
A special retreat day for children and their families, followed by the liturgical rehearsal for the First Communion Mass.
Celebration Mass
Children receive First Holy Communion during a special Sunday Mass with family, friends and the parish community.
Eucharistic Etiquette
Dress modestly: White attire for children; respectful clothing for all
Photography guidelines: Respect the sacredness of the Mass; follow parish instructions
Family seating: Arranged in advance; arrive early for procession
Receiving Communion: Receive respectfullyas you; say "Amen" clearly
Adult Preparation
RCIA Program: Adults seeking baptism or full communion with the Catholic Church
Special Preparation: For baptized Catholics who haven't received First Communion
Ongoing Formation: Bible studies and Eucharistic adoration for all parishioners
Home Preparation: Resources for parents to prepare children at home
✨ "The Eucharist is the sacrament of love: it signifies love, it produces love." — St. Thomas Aquinas
Prepare for First Holy Communion
Enroll your child early to ensure they complete their preparation and are ready to receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time.