The Sacrament of First Communion
Sacramental Preparation for First Eucharist/First Holy Communion - The Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life” (Lumen Gentium no. 11). Children who have reached the age of reason, at St. Philip Neri/St. Anne, 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). Preparation takes place during Faith Formation on Wednesday evenings. In the spring there is also a retreat for the First Eucharist Candidates and their parents. First Eucharist is celebration during the Easter season. A parent meeting takes place in the fall with information regarding the guidelines and requirements.
First Reconciliation - St. Philip Neri/St Anne provides catechesis on the first celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is designed to help children “acknowledge God’s unconditional love for us (and) turn to Christ and the Church for sacramental forgiveness and reconciliation” (NDC, 36B2). Second graders prepare and celebrate First Reconciliation during Wednesday evening Faith Formation.
First Reconciliation - St. Philip Neri/St Anne provides catechesis on the first celebration of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. It is designed to help children “acknowledge God’s unconditional love for us (and) turn to Christ and the Church for sacramental forgiveness and reconciliation” (NDC, 36B2). Second graders prepare and celebrate First Reconciliation during Wednesday evening Faith Formation.