This is a very special time for our Year 2 Blessed children. Over the next two weekends we will celebrate the reception of their First Holy Communion with 151 first communicants. Our children finished 13 classes in preparation for their First Reconciliation this past winter as well as their First Communion.
As part of our program, our students toured the Church and Chapel and watched YouTube clips of Saint Helen Masses to learn the parts of the Mass especially the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Our materials emphasize for our children that they are Blessed by God and God always loves them.
The children learned about the Consecration of the bread and wine which transforms into the Body and Blood of Christ. They practiced the sign of the Cross, the Lords’ Prayer, and the Hail Mary, learning that Jesus is always there for them, building that relationship with Him. The children and their parents attended the Blessing Cup retreat in March and learned that God is our potter, and we are His clay. The children have made the traditional First Communion banners at home with their parents/family which will hang at the end of their pew.
The most important lesson that our children learned is the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. It will be an incredibly special day for them and for the entire parish. They know that by receiving the Eucharist, we receive the grace and strength in our journey of life, helping them to make healthy decisions and to be the best version of themselves.
Congratulations to our First Communicants! Let us pray for all of them and their families.
Msgr. Tom
