First Penance & Holy Communion

Christian initiation is celebrated in Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Through these visible actions a young person is incorporated into the Church and shares its mission in the world.

Full initiation into the church occurs by stages.

Requirements for the reception of First Reconciliation (confession), Eucharist and Confirmation are determined by the Catholic Church’s Code of Canon Law:

• Attainment of the age of reason
• Proper knowledge of the sacraments
• Appropriate emotional and spiritual preparation
• Approval by parent, pastor, catechist, and Director of Faith Formation

Children are required to have a two-year minimum preparation to receive Reconciliation, First Eucharist and Confirmation. Parents are required to attend parent meetings and other activities related to the Sacrament. Check the calendar for these dates. The children will receive a reminder notice two weeks in advance.


First Reconciliation and First Eucharist traditionally take place in second grade requiring attendance in both first and second grades. Older children who have not received these sacraments should complete two years of religious education before receiving the sacraments. First Holy Communion is celebrated on a Sunday in May. All children preparing to receive their First Eucharist must have already received the Sacrament of Reconciliation.