Shelly Buchan
Children’s Discipleship Lead
Preparation for First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion
The Eucharist is the "source and summit of the Christian life," (Lumen Gentium, 11) and is the primary way that the Church teaches and forms us. The most important part of your child's preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion is your family's weekly attendance at Sunday mass. Because these sacraments are central parts of the Catholic faith, we prepare for and even celebrate the first time a child receives them. It is important to remember that the word “first” implies that you don’t receive these Sacraments only once.
Preparation Through St. Charles Parish Program
Preparation for receiving First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion is a two-year process that occurs within the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program, when possible. The preparation includes a series of scriptural meditations and retreats. Because this is a two-year process, it will usually begin in 1st or 2nd grade with the child receiving the sacraments in the Spring of 2nd or 3rd grade, typically. No child will be compelled to receive the sacraments until he/she is ready.
Preparation Through St. Charles School
Preparation for receiving First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion at St. Charles School is the focus of religious education in 2nd grade. Additionally, school children will attend Catechesis of the Good Shepherd each week. Their preparation also includes a series of scriptural meditations which they will attend with their parents outside of class time.
Sacramental Meditations & Retreats
In the Spring, children from both the parish program and St. Charles school, together with their adults, receive a series of Lectio Divina-style meditations focused on entering more deeply into the mysteries of the sacraments that they are preparing to receive. There are Scriptural Meditations focused on the True Vine (John 15:1-11), the Found Sheep and the Found Coin (Luke 15:4-10), the Forgiving Father (a.k.a. The Prodigal Son, Luke 15:11-24), and the Centurion's Servant (Matthew 8:8). First Communicants will participate in First Reconciliation and First Communion Retreats that include practical instruction and spiritual meditation. (School children will attend retreats during the school day.)
First Sacraments Preparation for Children with Special Needs
If your child has an IEP or a 504 at school, we are happy to meet with you and your child to determine what will best help them prepare for the sacraments. Most children do well in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd because it is both hands-on and child-paced.
First Sacraments Preparation for Older Children
If your child is starting preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in 3rd – 5th Grade, they will attend their regular Children’s Discipleship class and work with a tutor or small group for specific sacramental preparation. They will be required to attend sessions in addition to their regular classes as well as the Sacramental Meditations. They may be invited to participate in the retreats as well.
Preparation for First Sacraments Parent Handbook
Information coming soon!
How To Go To Reconciliation How To Receive Holy Communion
Please contact Children’s Discipleship Lead, Shelly Buchan, with any questions.