First Holy Communion
First Holy Communion is one of our three Sacraments of initiation. It is through these Sacraments that we become full members of the Church. We receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time during the First Holy Communion.
The Holy Eucharist refers to Christ’s body, blood, soul, and divinity that are truly present in the consecrated host and wine (now called the Body and Blood of Christ) on the altar. For us as Catholics, there is nothing greater than to receive Jesus, truly present in the Eucharist at Mass.
First Holy Communion is considered one of the holiest and most important occasions in a Catholic person’s life. It is the first time they receive the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, which is the eating of consecrated bread and (sometimes) drinking of consecrated wine. Most Catholic children receive their First Holy Communion when they are 7 or 8 years old, as this is considered the age of reason.
Older people can receive Communion for the first time, when they have met all the Catholic Church’s requirements. If you are an adult, 18 years or older, who is seeking more information on how to become a member of the Catholic Church, or if you are a baptised Catholic and have never received First Holy Communion, please speak to the parish priest.
If your child is approaching First Holy Communion age, please fill in the form below and give it to the parish priest, who will then arrange the relevant preparation, with you for your child.
What is necessary for my child to receive First Holy Communion?
At a minimum, your child needs to:
Be baptised in the Catholic Church, or another Christian denomination recognised by the Catholic Church.
Have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Instruction for this Sacrament will take place before instruction for First Holy Communion. The reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation will take place a few months before First Holy Communion.
When does instruction of the children begin?
Usually during the academic year. Please contact the parish priest to find out the dates for the next programme.
What do I have to do as a parent/guardian?
We ask that you support your child with the work they have to do during the programme and afterwards. It is important that they full understand the importance of taking their First Holy Communion. We ask that you ensure they attend one of the Sunday Mass services each week. Not only prior to their First Holy Communion but each Sunday and Holy day of obligation afterwards.
We also ask that you teach and support your child about daily prayer. It can be something as simple as an Our Father and a Hail Mary. A favourite with children can be the prayer to their Guardian Angel. Which can be said in the morning, and/or the evening before bed.
Angel of God,
My guardian dear,
To Whom God’s love,
Commits me here.
Ever this day,
Be at my side,
To light and guardian,
To rule and guide,
Amen.
What sort of gifts should I give a child for their First Holy Communion?
Ideally religious gifts should be included, as they often stay with the children through until they are adults, and help them practice and retain their faith. These can include;
A children’s bible,
A children’s prayer book,
A Sunday Missal,
A holy rosary and a leaflet on how to say it.
A Crucifix or saints medal to wear around their neck.
A statue of Jesus or Our Lady, or a Crucifix to keep in their bedroom.