Holy Communion augments our union with Christ. The principal fruit of receiving the Eucharist in Holy Communion is an intimate union with Christ Jesus. Indeed, the Lord said: He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. Life in Christ has its foundation in the Eucharistic banquet. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me.

What material food produces in our bodily life, Holy Communion wonderfully achieves in our spiritual life...The growth in Christian life needs the nourishment of Eucharistic Communion, the bread for our pilgrimage until the moment of death, when it will be given to us as viaticum. (CCC, 1391-1392)

The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic life. It brings us together, unites us, gives us strength to live as the People of God. It is a sacrament of loving, caring, and sharing.

The universal law of the Church clearly states that children who have reached the age of reason (age 7 and/or Grade 2) receive the Sacrament of Penance (Reconciliation) before admission to First Eucharist.

Parents are the best living example of faith for their children

We at St. John’s are here to assist you in preparing your child for 1st Eucharist. But, your child's appreciation of this sacrament is mainly in your hands. Weekly attendance at Mass is required so that your child can better appreciate and be aware of the full meaning of the Eucharist in family life. You as parents are the ones from whom the child learns most of their religious attitudes. At St. John’s, the preparatory studies for the reception of First Eucharist is a two-year program.

You, as parents, are the most meaningful adult Christians in the life of your child. You show your love for your child and give witness to your faith when you share your convictions about life and living. In particular, you can show how your personal response to God’s love by participating in the Mass, receiving the Holy Eucharist and Reconciliation as part of your commitment to living a Christian life. You show by your action that faith is not something that happens only as part of a special celebration day or once ever so often, but that God is at the very center of your life everyday.

And remember that we are here to assist you in preparing your child for their First Holy Communion, BUT their appreciation of this sacrament comes primarily from you. You, as parents, are the ones from whom your child learns most of his/her religious attitudes and values.

We look forward to walking this path of faith with you and your child. For more information on our program, please contact the Religious Ed Office at (414) 321-8922.