Sacrament of Holy Eucharist
The Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life, the Lord’s own sacrifice. In the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church namely, Christ himself. It is communion in the divine life. It is the culmination both of God’s action sanctifying the world in Christ and of the worship offered to Christ. It is the sum and summary of our faith. Eucharist completes the Christian Initiation.
Liturgical action of Eucharist is also traditionally known as the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It is central to our Christian faith. Holy Communion has a more complete form as a sign when it is received under both species of bread and wine.
Catholics are encouraged to receive the Holy Eucharist regularly.
First Holy Communion
Any baptized Catholic child who has reached the age of reason (seven years of age and attended religious education classes in the first grade and is now in the second grade) is eligible to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist, usually referred to as First Communion.
Requirements
- Parents must provide proof that the child was baptized in the Catholic Church
- The child must attend a preparation program provide at the parish
- Parents are the primary educators of children in the Catholic faith and should take an active part in First Communion preparation
- Child will also be prepared to receive First Reconciliation