​Sacramental Preparation for First Communion

The Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life” (Lumen Gentium no. 11). Children who have reached the age of reason, generally the Second grade (age 7), are carefully prepared to receive the Eucharist for the first time. We prepare them so they have an understanding of the mystery of Christ according to their capacity and can receive the Body of the Lord with faith and devotion (canon 913-1, 914).

First communion preparation takes place during Faith Formation on Wednesday evenings at St. Philip Neri-St.Anne, and Sunday mornings at St. Agnes. In the spring there is also a retreat for the First Eucharist Candidates and their parents. First Eucharist is celebrated during the Easter season.  A parent meeting takes place in the fall with information regarding the guidelines and requirements. 

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​Sacramental Preparation for First Confession

Preparation for the first celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation is designed to help children acknowledge God’s unconditional love for us, and that we need to turn to Christ and the Church for sacramental forgiveness and reconciliation (NDC, 36B2).  Second graders prepare and celebrate First Reconciliation during Wednesday evening (St. Philip) or Sunday morning (St. Agnes) Faith Formation.  ​