First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion

Second grade is a very special year in your child’s faith journey.
During this time, children prepare to receive two beautiful sacraments, First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.

Through learning, prayer, and participation in parish life, they grow in their understanding of God’s love, mercy, and presence in the Eucharist. Our goal is to help families celebrate this sacred time together and to make each step of the journey meaningful and memorable.

Preparation for the sacraments takes place through regular Religious Education classes and parish activities.
Throughout the year, children will:

• Learn about God’s forgiveness and how to make a good confession.

• Understand the meaning of the Eucharist and Jesus’ presence in Holy Communion.

• Practice important prayers and the parts of the Mass.

• Participate in parish and family faith experiences.

Parents will receive details, reminders, and meeting dates by email and phone.

Parents are the first and most important teachers of faith.
We ask families to support their children by:

• Attending Mass each weekend as a family.

• Reviewing lessons and prayers at home.

• Participating in required parent meetings and retreats.

• Helping their child prepare for each sacrament with love and understanding.

These moments show children that faith is not only learned, it is lived.

Children receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) before receiving First Communion.
This is a time to learn about God’s endless forgiveness and to experience His mercy in a personal way.

During their preparation, children learn:

• The steps of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

• How to examine their conscience.

• How to say an Act of Contrition and make a good confession.

Parents are invited to attend the celebration of Reconciliation with their child.

First Holy Communion is a joyful celebration when children receive the Body and Blood of Christ for the first time. They learn the importance of the Eucharist, reverence during Mass, and how to participate fully in the liturgy.

A First Communion Retreat is usually held in the spring to help children and parents reflect together before receiving the sacrament.

Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion includes a few key gatherings throughout the year. Attendance at these events is required for both children and at least one parent or guardian.

Typical Events Include:

• Parent Meeting: An evening meeting early in the school year to review expectations and the preparation process.

• Parent & Child Retreats: Reflective mornings that help families grow together in faith before each sacrament.

• Practice Sessions: Rehearsals held in church before the celebration of each sacrament.

• First Reconciliation Service: A communal celebration of the Sacrament of Penance, typically held during Lent.

• First Communion Mass: A joyful celebration in the spring when children receive the Eucharist for the first time.

• May Crowning: All First Communicants are invited to participate in the parish’s May Crowning ceremony.

• Attire: Children are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully for this sacred occasion.

  • Girls: White dress, veil or headpiece optional.

  • Boys: Dress pants, dress shirt, tie; jacket optional.

• Banners: Families are invited to create a small banner for display on First Communion day. Instructions and examples are provided in the printable “Banners for First Eucharist” document below.

2024-2025 First Holy Communion Calendar  

First Reconciliation Handbook

First Holy Communion Handbook 
Commitment for the Journey 

Banners for First Holy Communion

Other Communion Documents