We are delighted to guide you and your child through the preparation for two significant sacraments: First Reconciliation and First Communion. These sacraments are essential milestones in a child’s spiritual journey, fostering a deeper relationship with God and greater participation in the Church community.
What is First Reconciliation?
First Reconciliation, also known as Confession, is the sacrament through which individuals receive God’s mercy and forgiveness for their sins. It teaches the importance of repentance and the joy of being reconciled with God and the Church.
What is First Communion?
First Communion is the sacrament where children receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. This sacrament deepens their relationship with Jesus Christ, who is present in the Holy Communion and strengthens their faith.
Who Can Participate?
Children typically prepare for these sacraments in the second grade, but older children who have not yet received these sacraments are also welcome to participate in preparation classes.
Preparation Requirements
- Registration: Complete the First Reconciliation and Communion registration form for Sacramental Preparation here. We start classes on September 21st. If you are joining late, please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
- Preparation Classes: Attend weekly preparation classes on Sunday during Whole Community Faith Formation. We use Ascension Press curriculum, and we offer classes for both children and parents. These classes will cover the significance of the sacraments and how to participate meaningfully in them. They take place in the STEM Lab at the school.
- Family Involvement: We offer a parent class across the hall from the children’s class. This is a great way to be supported and meet other parents helping their children prepare for the sacraments. Parents and guardians are required to actively participate in their child's preparation. This includes attending parent classes, working through the homework activities and discussing the lessons at home, and practicing the faith by praying together and attending Mass!
- Mass Logs: You can find the required Mass Logs here. This helps ensure you and your child are preparing the best way possible, by participating in the Liturgy and attending Mass!
- Retreats: We have three retreats. A Reconciliation Retreat in January, a Sacraments of Initiation Retreat in February, and a First Communion Retreat in March. These special retreat days are designed to help children reflect on the sacraments and prepare their hearts for these significant moments.
Sacramental Preparation Schedule
All events and retreats will have sign-ups. Please be sure you are receiving our Flocknote communications to register your child online.
The Sacrament Celebration
- First Reconciliation: This sacrament will be celebrated as part of our Reconciliation Retreat on Monday, January 19th, at Queen of Peace.
- First Communion: The First Communion Masses will take place on April 25th at 5 pm, April 26th at 8:30 am, and 11 am.
Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate these joyous occasions. We will send a form to sign up for a Mass time and reserve seats for your family.
We are excited to walk alongside you and your child during this sacred journey. May God bless your family as you prepare for these important steps in faith!
| Contact | Catherine Crandall 503-364-7202 ext. 209 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. |
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