First Holy Communion
Parents commonly ask, “How will I know if my child is ready for First Holy Communion?” We share some thoughts in response. We also encourage your comments and questions.
First, what a beautiful question! Parents that care about proper preparations are showing great reverence for the Sacrament. Parents that model piety are more likely to have kids that are pious. Also, this question implies that parents know their role and responsibility as primary educators of the faith; they know their children best.
Fear not! The church is here to support you. Specifically, at Blessed Sacrament, our Faith Formation programs meet every Sunday for both Mass and class. Weekly Mass attendance is non-negotiable. Why else would we learn how to worship Jesus without actually worshipping Him? Why would we not want to receive the gift?
In our classes, we do teach vocabulary; we do explain what happens at Mass; we do expect kids to memorize prayers and learn the commandments. These facts are not arbitrary. We want kids to know what to expect at Reconciliation or First Holy Communion. These details ultimately help us go deeper in our wonder and awe of the Mystery of God.
Our Catechesis of the Good Shepherd classes give kids hands-on materials and prayerful time to ponder Mass prayers and gestures. They Mystery of the child meets the Mystery of God. Kids learn just how much Jesus desires to be so close to us. He delights in our Mass participation. He tells us to simply remain in relationship and we will bear fruit and have complete joy (John 15: 1-10).
Think about how much time and efforts couples give to their marriage preparations. What if, then, after the wedding day, they never spent time with one another? Not much of a relationship, huh. And, not what they signed up for. The church looks at all sacraments similarly.
Kids also show readiness when they are excited for the great gift they are about to receive: Jesus Himself. They often start to talk about it more. They become eager. They may even ask parents why they cannot receive Jesus like the parents do. Kids can then pray a spiritual communion in anticipation.
Importantly, kids need to understand that the consecrated Sacred Host and Precious Blood are unequivocally Jesus. Why? Because He said so, especially in John’s Gospel, chapter 6, where He tells us that unless we eat His flesh and drink His blood, we have no life within us.
None of us is worthy to receive Jesus, but through His mercy, we receive., With kids, we emphasize that all we need to do is ASK for forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation so that we can receive Jesus in a state of grace. We meet Jesus very concretely in every Sacrament, which makes our Catholic faith so personal and beautiful.
Finally, receiving First Holy Communion is day one, and not one day. It’s a big day, but not the last day. Preparing to receive Him is committing to a relationship with Him. Children are ready for that day when they also understand that now, they have an obligation to attend Sunday Mass every week.. They should plan to continue Faith Formation classes to grow in knowledge and love and service of our Lord.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. Parents, do you have and tips, techniques, or experiences you are willing to share with other families? Thank you in advance!