As parents, you may remember preparing for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation at school or in a parish group. The celebration of the Sacrament is always a joyful occasion to help deepen our faith, and help us to grow in holiness as we try to become better disciples of the Lord.
As the source of Christian life, whenever we receive the Eucharist, we unite ourselves with Jesus Christ, the bread of eternal life. We enter into communion with all our brothers and sisters in the Catholic Church, and are strengthened in our faith.
Reception of the Eucharist enables us to become full members of the Catholic Church, in union with Francis, our Pope and Patrick our Bishop; and the family of this parish. As a summit, the celebration of Mass is the highpoint of our prayer and worship of God.
We are inviting and leading our Children into deeper union with Jesus and his Church, revealed in greater love of God and our neighbour; made visible in life of our Parish community. When we gather at Mass, we remember and celebrate that at the Last Supper, Jesus gave us the Sacrament of his Body and Blood as a memorial of him; and as the sacrifice that takes away our sins.
“Lord, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and I shall be healed”. – from the Communion Rite.
“The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life”. – (Catechism of the Catholic Church)
First Communions are normally celebrated on or near the Feast of Corpus Christi. Courses are run for children attending non-Catholic schools. Forms are available each September from the back of the Church or please speak to Canon Geoffrey.