According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Sacraments “are the masterworks of God in the new and everlasting covenant” (CCC 1116) and so it is with joy that we encourage you and your children to benefit from the graces they will receive from these great gifts from God.

But just as God prepared His people for the coming of Christ all throughout Scripture, we too should prepare our hearts and minds to receive His Mysteries in the Sacraments. We learn at every baptism that parents are the first teachers of the Faith and we at St. Francis believe they play an important and irreplaceable role in the formation and preparation of their children for the Sacraments. Therefore we provide you with all of the information you need for you and your child to work together and prepare them throughout the year. 

Please Note:  Your child MUST be baptized before they receive either the Sacrament of Confession or Holy Communion and proof of baptism must be provided during the course of preparation.

When we sin, we hurt the life of grace in our souls and our relationship with God. The Sacrament of Confession was instituted by Christ in order that we might come to know His Love and Forgiveness and be restored to grace and friendship with Him.

First Confession typically begins in September for children in 2nd Grade or above and they receive their First Confession during the season of Advent in December. Since it is essential that we receive the sacrament of Holy Communion without serious sin on our souls, preparing for and receiving the Sacrament of Confession is an important step in preparing to receive Holy Communion. 

 In the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Eucharist is called the “source and summit” of our Faith. (CCC 1324)  Since Jesus Christ is truly present in the Eucharist, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity, it is easily the greatest of all the Sacraments, because there is no greater gift than the gift of God Himself. It is because of these great mysteries, that we take time and effort to prepare all souls preparing to receive Christ for the First time in the Eucharist, especially our children.

The Preparation for First Holy Communion typically begins in January for children 2nd Grade or above and children can usually expect to receive their First Communion sometime during the Easter season. It is important that your child receive the Sacraments of Baptism and First Confession before they receive their First Holy Communion. 

For information on First Confession and First Communion Preparation, contact our Faith Formation Coordinator.  If you are interested in having your child baptized, please contact the Parish Center Office. 

If you are in 10th Grade or older and are interested in receiving the Sacraments for the first time, please check out the RCIA page.