Saint Mark the Evangelist Faith Formation

As Catholics, First Eucharist (Holy Communion) is one of seven sacraments of our Faith. The Holy Eucharist is one of the three Sacraments of Christian initiation. The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith.

The sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist typically take place in second grade, for children who are already baptized. Preparation to receive the sacraments is an important part of Faith Formation. The goal is that each student will approach the altar joyfully and with a clear understanding of the commitment being undertaken. Two years of formal religious education (via Parish School enrollment or Faith Formation) assist in preparation for the reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and First Eucharist.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Parents if your child postponed the reception of First Reconciliation or First Eucharist in prior years and has yet to receive either of these sacraments, you should reach out immediately. Email Mary French for more information - mfrench@saintmark.org

When can my child receive this sacrament?

This sacrament typically occurs during 2nd grade. Faith Formation programming will assist in the preparation for the reception of this sacrament and is a 2 year process, during Grades 1 and 2. Your child's First Eucharist is received after Baptism and First Reconciliation, typically during the Easter Season under normal circumstances.

Are parents given information about this sacrament?

Shortly after each school year begins (typically during the month of October), parents of students enrolled in 2nd grade Faith Formation, enrolled in 2nd grade at Saint Kilian or Holy Sepulcher Schools, and other students we are aware are in need of sacraments are sent information about what to expect during the school year as well as dates for parent informational meetings and other pertinent information. Reminders for any events occurring in the spring will be sent once dates are confirmed. Please plan to attend any parent meeting (whether live or virtual) so that you have the opportunity to receive firsthand information and to ask questions. If you believe you should have received information about this sacrament but did not, please contact Mary French, Director of Faith Formation at Saint Mark Parish immediately by email: mfrench@saintmark.org.

When do the celebrations of this sacrament occur?

Typically the Sacrament of First Eucharist (First Communion) is scheduled to occur during Masses throughout the Easter Season, under normal circumstances. Due to the large numbers of students that receive this sacrament each year, parents will be required to sign up for an available date and time as numbers are limited for each scheduled event. When dates are confirmed this information will be sent to parents explaining their options and how to sign up.

Please note that any guidelines in place for safety must be followed and this may alter the normal routine. Pay careful attention to all correspondence for the latest and most precise information.

What if my child could not attend one of the celebrations but was enrolled and prepared for this sacrament?

If your child is unable to attend one of the officially scheduled celebrations for First Eucharist, please contact Mary French, Director of Faith Formation at Saint Mark Parish to discuss other options.

Email: mfrench@saintmark.org

Call: 724.625.1665 x 2122

Can I help prepare my child for this sacrament?

Yes! All parents will be sent information about assisting in the preparation for this sacrament around the new year. There is a private webpage for just this purpose, providing you with suggestions, videos, lessons, prayers, and practice guidelines that can be done at home with children preparing for their First Eucharist. If you believe you did not receive this email or have lost the information, please send an email to mfrench@saintmark.org.

Summary of Important Dates and Times:

First Eucharist 2025 Virtual Parent Meeting Dates: February 2 and 4, 2025. Please watch your inbox and bulletin for more information.
Scheduled 2025 Celebrations of First Eucharist at Saint Mark Parish:
- Saturday, April 26th | Holy Sepulcher and Saint Kilian Churches
- Saturday, May 3rd | Holy Sepulcher and Saint Kilian Churches

Dates above include Celebrations of First Eucharist at both Church locations. Sign-Up for your preferred date, time, and location once that process is open. Note that space is limited for any event requiring you to sign-up.

Please register if you intend to attend and participate.

Need information about First Reconciliation?

Visit the First Reconciliation page for more information about this sacrament!

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