The sacrament of First Holy Communion, or First Eucharist, is received after completion of a mandatory two-year preparation program (Levels I and II). 

During the first year of preparation, children are taught by their parents at home. Registration for Level I is generally on a Sunday in mid-September, which we call Ice Cream Sundae Sunday.  First grade families are invited to the 11:00 AM Mass, and afterward register their children for the program while the children enjoy an ice cream sundae.  In this part of the two-year process, parents gather for an Enrollment Prayer Service, and three instructional meetings.  The children gather for Epiphany and Lenten activities. 

At the start of the second year (Level II), children are placed in classes with a catechist (a teacher of the faith).  They continue their preparation for First Holy Communion, which is ordinarily celebrated during the Easter Season. 

Children in Level II are prepared for and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) in January before receiving First Holy Communion.

Catechesis continues for students in grades 3 through 6, with an emphasis on receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation, social ministry, and special Advent and Lenten programs in the church, such as praying the Rosary, and the Jesse Tree during Advent; and the Stations of the Cross designed for children during Lent.  Following grade 6, children enter a two-year preparatory program for Confirmation.  Children are expected to continue their Faith Formation each year, grades 1 through 8, in order to be properly prepared to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.

First Eucharist & Reconciliation FAQ's

Help for Parents of First Eucharist Children.pdf