Preparing Young Hearts to Receive Jesus in the Eucharist

“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger.” — John 6:35

A Special Journey of Faith

First Holy Communion is a beautiful milestone in a child's journey of faith. Through this Sacrament, children receive Jesus Christ truly present in the Holy Eucharist for the first time and are invited into a deeper relationship with Him.

Our First Communion Formation program prepares children to celebrate both First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion through prayer, Scripture, participation in the Holy Mass, and age-appropriate instruction.

Schedule Note: The formation schedule includes classes for Grades 1 and 2. Special sacramental events are for Grade 2 First Communion students only.

Preparing for First Holy Communion

First Holy Communion is traditionally celebrated in Grade 2. We recommend that children begin Religious Education in Grade 1, allowing two years of faith formation as they grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith and the Sacraments.

We recognize that every family's faith journey is different. Families whose children are entering Grade 2 without previous Religious Education experience are warmly encouraged to contact our office to discuss preparation.

Older Students: Children in Grade 3 and above who are preparing to receive their First Holy Communion participate in our Faith Builders program, where they receive age-appropriate sacramental instruction.

First Reconciliation

As part of their First Communion preparation, children learn about God's unconditional love, mercy, and forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Children celebrate their First Reconciliation before receiving their First Holy Communion, helping them prepare their hearts to welcome Jesus in the Eucharist.

Growing in Faith

Throughout their preparation, children will:

• Deepen their understanding of God's love and the teachings of Jesus.
• Learn about the Holy Mass and the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
• Discover the importance of forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
• Develop a greater appreciation for prayer, Scripture, and the Sacraments.
• Grow in their relationship with Jesus and their parish community.

Families as Partners in Faith

Parents are the first and most important teachers of the faith. Our Religious Education program works in partnership with families to help children grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

Families are encouraged to attend Sunday Mass together, pray at home, and participate in special sacramental preparation events throughout the year.

Questions or Additional Information?

Ms. Kelly O'Connor
Director of Religious Education
Main Office: (413) 532-0713 ext. 118
Office Cell: (413) 213-6624
Email: oconnork@blessedsacramentholyoke.org