First Communion and the Sacrament of Penance

In the Catholic Church, the reception of First Communion and the Sacrament of Penance (also called Reconciliation) are significant steps in a child's faith journey.

First Communion

• First Communion refers to a child's first reception of the Eucharist, which is the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. Catholics believe that during the Mass, the bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, and receiving it unites the individual with Jesus and the Church.

Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation)

• The Sacrament of Penance is how Catholics receive forgiveness for sins committed after Baptism. It involves:
• Contrition (being sorry for one's sins)
• Confession (telling one's sins to a priest)
• Absolution (receiving forgiveness from the priest)
• Penance (an act of reparation for one's sins)

Preparation

• Preparation for the Sacraments of First Penance and First Communion typically begins when a child is in the second grade. However, in accordance with Diocesan regulations, children must participate in Faith Formation for at least two years before entering the sacramental preparation year. Therefore, children should be enrolled in Faith Formation when they are in the first grade.

 For more information, contact Lucy Hawthorne at lhawthorne@syrdio.org.