First Communion

Forming Young Disciples for the Table of the Lord

The Sacrament of the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. In Holy Communion, we receive the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, who nourishes us and draws us into deeper communion with Him and the Church. At St. Francis Parish, we joyfully accompany our children as they prepare for this sacred moment, beginning with formation for the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist typically takes place in second grade for children baptized in the Catholic Faith. A first year of religious education (usually in first grade) is normally required before beginning sacramental preparation.

Children, not attending St. Francis School, should register for Religious Education Classes. If your child has missed one or more years of religious education, we are happy to work with your family to begin or continue sacramental preparation at a suitable level.

To prepare well for both sacraments, families are asked to support their child by:

Regular Sunday Mass attendance and use of the Mass Passports:
The passport encourages and engages the child in Mass participation. Attendance at weekend Mass is an important part of our Faith as Catholics and in preparation for First Communion.

1) Write the child’s name in the passport & reflect and write a prayer (child and parent) as we begin preparation.

2) The child brings the passport to Mass on the weekends. After or before Mass, please help your child stamp their passport.

3) Passports are due and will be reviewed at the retreat.

4) Lost your child's passport? Download the passport here.

• Arranging regular and active participation in class for their child
• Attendance at parent-child meetings and retreat
• Ongoing support of your child’s faith formation at home with use of the worksheets and bible given out for Reconciliation and Eucharist.

Program Highlights & Key Dates

First Communion & Retreat Registration (for both school and Religious Education children)

Mark your calendar and parent and child, plan to attend the re-scheduled meeting on Sunday, January 18 at 2:30 pm in church.
Attendance is an important part of the preparation, however if you are not able to attend, you may watch the live-stream (recording)here.
The worksheets from your child's Reconciliation folder are due by the time of the meeting.

Register your child for First Eucharist and the required First Communion Retreat (included in Registration) here

Retreats take place Saturday mornings in February 28 and March 7, 2026 (9:00 AM–1:00 PM)
Para los estudiantes que asisten a las clases bilingües del sábado por la tarde, por favor elijan la fecha del 28 de febrero.

• Parents are invited to assist during the retreat
• Parents are expected to attend from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM for a special talk on the Sacrament
• Lunch is included in the $50 per family retreat fee

First Reconciliation Celebration takes place on Saturday morning, January 17 and Tuesday evening, January 20 and includes time for parents and family members to receive Confession. Sign up at: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/FirstConfession2026

Act of Contrition

Children should memorize the Act of Contrition:

My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart.

In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good,
I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things.

I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more

and to avoid whatever leads me to sin.

Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us.

In his name, my God, have mercy. Amen.

Acto de Contrición:

Dios mío, me arrepiento de todo corazón

de todo lo malo que he hecho y de todo lo bueno que he dejado de hacer, 

porque pecando te he ofendido a ti,  que eres el sumo bien 

y digno de ser amado sobre todas las cosas. 

Propongo firmemente, con tu gracia, 

cumplir la penitencia, no volver a pecar 

y evitar las ocasiones de pecado. 

Perdóname, Señor, por los méritos de la pasión 

de nuestro Salvador Jesucristo. Amén.

First Communion Rehearsal and Mass Times:
Rehearsals: Tues, April 28 and Wed, April 29 at 6:30 pm
El ensayo para los niños que celebrarán en la Misa en español es el miércoles 6 de mayo a las 6:30 pm.

First Communion will be celebrated at specific Mass times. on the weekend of May 2/3, May 9/10 and May 17.
Sign up at:https://www.signupgenius.com/go/Eucharist2026
La celebración de la Misa de la Primera Comunión en español será el 9 de mayo a las 7:00 pm

Por favor, lleguen a las 6:30 pm.

Need Support or Have Questions? We’re here to support you and your child at every step!

Contact: Ellen Ward

ward@stfrancisa2.org

734-821-2130