First Reconciliation & Eucharist

The sacraments of Reconciliation (Penance) and Eucharist (Communion) are typically celebrated for the first time in second grade. The religion curricula in both the SFX School and PREP are focused on these topics for the second grade level. Because parents are the primary religious educators of their children, much emphasis is placed on supporting parents as their children prepare for the celebration of these sacraments. Parent gatherings are held to teach up-to-date sacramental theology, offer suggested practices for home, and cover the details of the celebrations.

First Reconciliation is held in January, and parents first meet in the fall to begin the process. They are provided with material to help them prepare their children at home. An optional practice of the ceremony is offered beforehand in order to make both the child and parents as comfortable as possible. This celebration is about God’s great love for all of us and our need to respond to that love with good and holy lives. It is the policy of the Archdiocese of Chicago that every child be prepared for the sacrament of Reconciliation before being prepared for First Eucharist.

First Eucharist, or First Communion, is celebrated in May. In very early spring a gathering is held for parents to provide them with the tools and information they need to prepare their child for this special day. The celebration of First Eucharist is a step in the child’s faith formation and a parish event that welcomes each child to our common table. A retreat day is held for the children and their attendance is expected.

During this special time in the child’s life, regular attendance at Sunday Mass and religion classes is expected. A copy of the child’s baptismal certificate is required for church records at this time. Baptism opens the door for other sacraments and communication with the church of baptism is required.

Should a child be past second grade and in need of introduction to these sacraments, special arrangements can be made. The parents' right as their child's primary religious educators is always respected. Cooperation between the parish staff and the parents will help to prepare the child and appropriate celebrations will be held.

Find out more about the Second Grade PREP curriculum, or contact Kieran Lyons at (847) 256-4250, ext. 19 or at sfxkieran@comcast.net

RECONCILIATION AND FIRST EUCHARIST SCHEDULE 2012-2013