Preparing for First Communion

“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day”  John 6:54

A baptized Catholic who has reached the age of reason (normally considered to be seven    years of age), and who has been properly prepared, may celebrate First Eucharist.

Preparation and celebration of First Eucharist (Communion) are to be parish-based. The recommended age group is 2nd grade. A child or adult wishing to receive First Eucharist is expected to attend Mass regularly and participate in the parish’s preparation program. Preparation for this sacrament begins in 1st Grade Faith Formation, which the child is expected to attend regularly.

In the Archdiocese of Seattle, children are prepared for Sacramental Reconciliation and are given the opportunity to celebrate that special Sacrament of Forgiveness before receiving First Eucharist. 

A child wishing to receive First Eucharist is expected to attend Mass regularly with at least one Catholic parent or guardian, and participate fully in the parish’s Faith Formation Program for at least one year prior to enrolling in the Sacramental Preparation Program. At least one parent or guardian of a child is required to attend specific preparation sessions with their child, and to present the child for First Eucharist. 

Parents or guardians who homeschool their children are to contact the parish for inclusion in sacramental preparation classes for their children.

Baptized but un-catechized adult Catholics who wish to celebrate First Eucharist are to be properly prepared for the sacrament. Adult candidates for First Eucharist normally join in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) for this preparation.

Adult candidates for First Eucharist are to be prepared for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation prior to their reception of First Eucharist.

The Pastor must verify proper preparation prior to a child’s or adult’s reception of First Reconciliation.

Contact: Please call the parish office to arrange preparation -  253-875-6630