Along with the Sacrament of Baptism, First Holy Communion is one of the three sacraments of initiation. It is through these sacraments of initiation that we become full members of the Church. It is during First Holy Communion that we receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time. The Holy Eucharist refers to Christ’s body, blood, soul, and divinity truly present in the consecrated host and wine (now called the Body and Blood of Christ) on the altar. For us as Catholics, there is nothing greater than to receive Jesus, truly present in the Eucharist at Mass.
We extend a special greeting to you if you are trying to find out more about First Holy Communion for yourself or your child.
If you are an adult who is seeking more information on how to become a member of the Catholic Church, or if you are a baptized Catholic who never received First Holy Communion, please see our Becoming Catholic page to find more information on The Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) and what the process is as well as contact information.
If you are visiting our site because your child is approaching second grade, or a little older; and you want to know the process for your child to receive First Holy Communion, we say welcome! We know what a busy and exciting time this is for your family, and we want to continue to assist you in raising your child in the faith.
Below are some FAQs to help answer some of your questions. Please contact Mrs. Patti Horner in the Religious Education office at (440) 333-2133 with further questions.
FAQ
What is necessary for my child to receive First Holy Communion?
At a minimum, your child must:
Be baptized in the Catholic Church, or another Christian denomination recognized by the Catholic Church. Basically, they must have been baptized with water and “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
Have received at least one year of religious education instruction before second grade. Enrollment in St. Angela Merici in second grade, or enrollment in our Parish School of Religion in level two, is the norm. If your child is older than second grade, please contact Mrs. Patty Horner to discuss options.
Have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Instruction for this sacrament will take place at the same time as instruction for First Holy Communion. The reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation will take place before First Holy Communion.
When does the instruction of children take place?
For Children in both the St. Angela Merici day school and PSR program, preparation for First Holy Communion typically takes place during their second grade year.
When does First Holy Communion take place?
First Holy Communion for second graders is usually scheduled in early May. Please contact the Parish Center at (440) 333-2133 for the exact date.
What else is necessary for my child to receive First Holy Communion?
If you remember, at your child’s Baptism, you as parents reaffirmed your belief in the Catholic Church and promised to raise your child in the Catholic faith. This is what the Church calls our “founded hope” that your child will be raised in the Catholic faith. Today, if this “founded hope” is in jeopardy because your faith as a parent has changed and you no longer believe in the Catholic Church, or you attend another Christian church, or for whatever reason you are not willing to ensure that your child will have opportunities to learn the faith and attend Sunday Mass, there may be reason to delay First Holy Communion. These are serious issues and will need the pastor’s determination to proceed. If any of this describes your belief or practice today, please contact a priest or deacon early to discuss your particular situation.
