Jesus said, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.” John 6:51.
The sacrament of the Eucharist lies at the very heart of the Catholic faith. When we receive Holy Communion, we are united with Jesus in the most intimate way possible here on earth. For the Eucharist is the Body and Blood of Christ. The almighty God, Creator of the universe, humbles himself so that he can become one with us each time we participate in the Sacrifice of the Mass and receive communion.
Adult First Holy Communion
When we receive the Eucharist, we receive Christ’s Body and Blood: it is a sacrament of love and a sign of our unity with God and each other. First Holy Communion is essential to completion of Christian initiation as it is spiritual food for the ongoing journey of our Christian life.
Adults being baptised as Catholic Christians, receive first Holy Communion together with Baptism and Confirmation (See RCIA)
Non-Catholic Christians being received into the Catholic Church receive first Holy Communion after their profession of faith and Confirmation.
Catholic adults completing their initiation receive first Holy Communion after Confirmation.
How long does it take an adult to be ready for first Holy Communion?
Every journey in faith is individual. When an adult asks for first Holy Communion their life experiences and spiritual journey are taken into account. Where a person has been participating in the Catholic faith, it may take a short time of preparation. In other cases where a person is new to the Catholic faith, it may take a year. Each person must discern her or his readiness with the help of the Church.
Please contact the parish for further information on adult First Holy Communion. We look forward to being able to assist you.
First Holy Communion for Children
Preparing to receive Reconciliation and the Eucharist for the first time can be one of the most memorable experiences parents share with their children. It is an important annual celebration in the life of our community.
Beforehand it is important that the family attend Mass each Sunday so that the child understands the Mass and experiences the presence of Christ in the liturgy.
As with any deep friendship, it is important that we truly know and encounter a person, not simply know about them through taught sessions. Coming to Mass each week is as important as our teaching sessions.
Families who regularly worship at Saint Patrick’s Church are invited to enrol their children for the parish preparation for Reconciliation/Eucharist when they are in Year 3 or above. Parents play an important part in the preparation sessions which take place weekly at St Patrick’s School. Full attendance at the Saturday Vigil or Sunday Mass is required. Celebration of First Communion is usually held on the Sunday of the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ.
It is truly a wonderful day in the life of our parish.