First Reconciliation

A parent must prepare their child for First Reconciliation before the child can be prepared and celebrate First Eucharist. Children must be at least 7 years old before they can begin the First Reconciliation and First Eucharist preparation process.

Classes for Parents will be held on:
Tuesday, October  2, 2007 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Tuesday, October  9, 2007 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm
Tuesday, October 23 2007 from 7:00pm - 9:00pm

All three classes are mandatory for parents. Babysitting can be provided by calling Amy Woods in advance of the classes. For any questions or concerns, please call Amy Woods at 625-6763.

Guidelines for First Reconciliation Preparation

• The Church recognizes parents as the most influential agents of catechesis for their children; the first educators, or catechists.
• The basic responsibility for sacramental preparation rests with the parent. The role of the Parish is as an aide to parents.
• Parents will be required to attend 3 preparation sessions for First Reconciliation.
• The child must have reached the age of reason (Defined as age 7).
• For children seeking sacraments, a copy of the child’s baptismal is required. (If you experience any problems, please contact the Parish office).
• Registration in 2nd grade Religious Education (RE) class does NOT guarantee a student will celebrate the sacrament(s) that year!
• A student ‘must’ have attended Religious Education sessions or have been enrolled in Catholic School the year prior to sacramental year.
• For children not baptized as infants who have attained the age of reason
  (Defined as age 7), the Rite of Christian Initiation (RCIA) adapted for children is recommended.
• Children will receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation/ Penance ‘prior’ to their first reception of the Eucharist.

Before Receiving the Sacrament the child will …

• The child will have the understanding that sin is choosing to do what is wrong.
• Child will recognize that there is good and evil in the world and their personal capacity for both.
• The child will know the truth that God loves us unconditionally and will always forgive us.
• Children will have some knowledge of the symbols, gestures, and prayers of the Rite of Reconciliation.