Reconcilation/Eucharist

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION FOLLOWS THE DIOCESAN GUIDELINES:

Preparation for First Reconciliation and Eucharist is separate from, and in addition to, study in the Religious Education program in our parish or religion taught in a Catholic school. A child must have completed the first Grade curriculum during a full year of formal religious instruction before being able to enter sacramental preparation. Our Bishop believes the choice and responsibility to prepare their child for the Sacraments belongs to parents. Therefore, parents complete and return a Sacramental Registration Form to enter the process. It is important to return all requested information promptly and to add the dates of meetings, workshops etc. to your calendar as soon as you receive them.

FIRST RECONCILIATION:

This sacrament, also known as Penance or Confession, is prepared for several months before First Eucharist. Having its own preparation and attention gives adequate time for parent/s to help their child grow in understanding of sin, mistakes, accidents, forgiveness, making amends, admitting, beginning anew and other underlying realities that lead to reconciliation. The preparation and celebration of this sacrament take place in fall / early winter (at the earliest in Gr. 2) with a variety of sessions. Parents are central in this process.

FIRST EUCHARIST:

Our preparation for this sacrament also involves parent/s in preparing their child to receive Holy Communion. This preparation program takes place in the late winter/early spring of the year, minimally in Gr. 2, and usually following the Reconciliation preparation. Children celebrate their First Communion with their family, at regular weekend Masses in April or May.