First Holy Communion is the first time a child receives Jesus Christ in the Eucharist – the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ.

Two years of consecutive Faith Formation is required prior to celebrating the sacrament.

Yes. Enrollment in Christian Formation is required so children can properly learn about the Eucharist and prepare to receive Jesus with faith and reverence.

St. Mary Magdalene requires at least two years of consecutive faith formation prior to celebrating the sacrament.

To help the day run smoothly and reverently, please keep the following in mind:

• Arriving early is very important to allow time for seating

• Students will begin in the Conner Ministry Building before processing into the church

• Children will be seated in the same order they will process into Mass

• A photographer will be present to take pictures during the celebration

• Please help maintain a spirit of reverence: no gum, talking, or cell phones during Mass

• Students should not bring purses, gloves, or unnecessary items

• Any blessing of rosaries or religious items should take place after Mass outside the church

Children are encouraged to dress in their “Sunday’s Best” as a sign of reverence for this sacred occasion – not as a reflection of extravagance. Families should never feel pressure to purchase expensive clothing for First Holy Communion.

• Jackets and ties are welcome but are not required, and should remain comfortable and not restrictive

• Dresses that are strapless or have spaghetti straps should include a shawl or cover

• Dresses and skirts should be approximately knee length or longer

• Clothing should be modest, respectful, and appropriate for Mass

Most importantly, the focus of the day is not on appearances, but on receiving Jesus Christ in the Eucharist with faith, joy, and reverence.

Yes. Baptism is required before receiving First Holy Communion. You will be required to submit your child’s Baptismal Certificate before receiving First Holy Communion.

Yes. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states clearly:

“Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time” (CCC 1457).

For this reason, we typically hold First Reconciliation in February before First Holy Communion in May.

However, if a child has been recently baptized, they are already in a state of grace, since Baptism removes all sin.

Parents support their child through prayer, participation at Mass, and conversations about faith at home. Your witness helps children understand the importance of the Eucharist.

In addition, parents participate in three key experiences:

• Forgiven and Renewed – A First Reconciliation Workshop held in November

• The Mystery of the Bread of Life –A workshop on Jesus in the Eucharist in January

• Mass Mysteries Unlocked – A “show and tell” event on the beauty of the Mass in March

Finally, Parents must submit their child’s baptismal certificate prior to their child receiving the Sacrament of First Holy Communion.

There are three important experiences you and your child will experience:

• Forgiven and Renewed – A First Reconciliation Workshop held in November

• The Mystery of the Bread of Life –A workshop on Jesus in the Eucharist in January

• Mass Mysteries Unlocked – A “show and tell” event on the beauty of the Mass in March

These are requirements of your family for your child to receive the sacrament. Please contact the Sacrament Office in advance if you have difficulties attending.

A First Holy Communion retreat (a requirement of First Holy Communion) helps children understand the profound gift they are about to receive: Jesus Christ truly present in the Eucharist.

Children will experience:

• Simple, engaging talks rooted in Scripture

• Interactive activities

• Tasting unconsecrated hosts

No matter when a child is preparing to receive First Holy Communion – from early elementary to high school – we provide age-appropriate retreats that help them encounter Jesus in the Eucharist with understanding, reverence, and joy.

Our retreats are given in April before First Holy Communion masses in May.

First Holy Communion is celebrated during select Masses in May. Because these are regular parish Masses, the entire congregation has the opportunity to celebrate this joyful occasion with your family and pray for your child.

Families are assigned a Mass approximately three months in advance to allow time for scheduling and preparation. Likewise, a First Holy Communion Practice is scheduled for your child the week before your child’s First Holy Communion Mass.

These events are an important part of your child’s sacramental journey and should be prioritized whenever possible. While we understand families have many commitments and activities, preparation for the sacraments should take precedence over most extracurricular schedules whenever feasible.

If your family is unable to attend a required event, it is very important that you contact the Christian Formation Office as soon as possible. We will provide information about any necessary make-up materials, guidance, or alternate opportunities to help your child remain on track.

There is no guarantee that your child will be placed at a particular Mass. However, there is a process for special requests. That process will be announced when the initial Mass assignments are released approximately three months ahead of First Holy Communion Masses.