Eucharist (Holy Communion)

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"At the Last Supper, on the night he was betrayed, our Savior instituted the Eucharistic sacrifice of his Body and Blood. This he did in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the cross throughout the ages until he should come again, and so to entrust to his beloved Spouse, the Church, a memorial of his death and resurrection: a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a Paschal banquet 'in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.’” — From the Catechism of the Catholic Church, §1323

Holy Communion is referred to as the crowning of all the Sacraments. Through it, Jesus becomes present in a way that is unique among the Sacraments. After receiving Holy Communion, Jesus is literally dwelling in you! The proper response to such a gift is sheer gratitude — thanksgiving. As Catholics, we should recognize that the Eucharist is not a symbol. As Jesus himself said during the Bread of Life Discourse, “My Flesh is true food, and My Blood is true drink” (Gospel of John, 6:55).

Since Saint Pope Pius X (the early 20th century), the Roman Catholic Church has lowered the age of receiving First Holy Communion to the age of reason. While this is traditionally considered to be the age of 7 (2nd grade), it can be done sooner or later based upon your child’s knowledge and ability to articulate what is taking place at Mass. He/she must be baptized and have received their First Confession and either participate in our First Holy Communion program (6-8 weeks) or be able to answer some basic questions about the Mass and the Eucharist.

If you have any questions, contact us for more details.