Day 1: Hunger for Jesus
Prayer:
Jesus, make my heart ready for You.
Teaching:
Just like we hunger for food, our souls hunger for Jesus.
Discussion:
What does it feel like to be hungry?
What does your heart “long for”?
Activity:
Talk about fasting before Communion (in a simple, age-appropriate way)
Day 2: HOW to Receive Jesus (Hands or Tongue)
Prayer:
Jesus, help me receive You with love and reverence.
Teaching:
We can receive Jesus:
On the tongue OR
In the hands (like a throne)
If receiving in the hand:
One hand flat on top of the other
Step aside → place Jesus in your mouth right away
If receiving on the tongue:
Hands folded
Slightly open mouth, tongue extended
Discussion:
Which way feels most comfortable and reverent to you?
Why is it important to be careful and respectful?
Watch: https://youtu.be/qdGkTdv4Dt4?si=Dm-Cw0WPFqVjwqWM
Day 3: Quiet Time with Jesus After Communion
Teaching:
After receiving Jesus, He is truly in us - this is a special time to talk to Him.
Discussion:
If Jesus came to your house, what would you say?
What could you thank Him for?
Activity:
Practice 1–2 minutes of silence together
(You can whisper: “Thank you, Jesus” or “I love you, Jesus”)
Light a candle, pray together, and thank God for His mercy.
Day 4: Confession as Preparation
Teaching:
Confession helps us receive Jesus with a clean and joyful heart.
Discussion:
How do you feel after you say sorry and are forgiven? How was your first confession?
Why does Jesus want our hearts clean?
Activity:
Simple reflection:
“Jesus, I give You…” (let them name one thing)
Optional: plan to attend confession before Communion day
Day 5: The Big Day & Living with Jesus
Teaching:
First Communion is the beginning of a lifelong friendship with Jesus.
Discussion:
What are you most excited about?
How can we stay close to Jesus after this day?
Activity Ideas:
Write a letter to Jesus for First Communion morning
Parents pray over their child (speak blessing over them)
Create a “Promise to Jesus” (I will love, I will listen, I will come to Mass)
REMINDER:
April 29th: 5:30 PM - First Holy communion PRACTICE at the Church
** Dinner WILL be served
May 2nd: 5:00 Mass- First Holy Communion
-Meet at 4:15 to go over expectations
-Mass followed by cake!