First Communion

1stCOMM.OurLadyOfMtCarmel_Mass_PRINT-416Initiated into the faith by the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, Christians are fully joined to the Body of Christ in the Sacrament of Eucharist. This sacrament is the center and the heart of the Roman Catholic Church and the life of a Catholic Christian. Children baptized as infants receive the Sacrament of Eucharist usually before the Sacrament of Confirmation. “It is the norm in the Archdiocese of Newark that children should receive the Sacrament of Penance before they receive First Communion. When parents prefer that their children wait until a later age rather than receiving Penance in first or second grade, the reception of First Communion should also be delayed until that later age after the reception of Penance. This is the normative practice in the Archdiocese and exceptions from it should be sought from the Regional Bishop in each area.” (Archdiocesan Policy #0572)

Preparation

Readiness:
Candidates have received the sacrament of Reconciliation. A candidate has a basic knowledge of Jesus, His mission, the Sacrifice of the Mass, and a desire to receive Jesus in the Eucharist. Candidates know the difference between regular bread and the bread of the Eucharist.

Requirements:
Registered member of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church and actively participate at Mass on a regular basis. The candidate must be in the process of completing two years of religious instruction and be willing to participate in our parish program of preparation.

Parental Participation:
Attendance at First Eucharist Parent Meeting is expected. Parents commit to using the material provided for the child for home sessions. A parent is to attend the Eucharist rehearsal with their child.

First Communion Preparation Day:
Children participate in a day of prayer and activities centered on the Eucharist. This day is scheduled on the calendar.

First Communion Day:
Parents will make a choice of day/time for the reception of Eucharist.

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