Eucharist

Children begin preparation for First Reconciliation and First Communion at 7 years old, typically in 2^nd grade. Children older than seven who have not received First Reconciliation and First Communion should enroll in preparation as well. First Reconciliation is received before First Communion. A Communicant should be in a state of grace (free from mortal sin) to worthily receive the Eucharist. First Reconciliation prepares children to understand this and to approach the Eucharist with a sincere heart.  

 Parents not only have the right but also the responsibility to be intimately involved in preparing their children for the sacraments. Parent(s) will attend classes with their child, and work with their child at home to nourish a love of God and an appreciation for the sacraments. Parents will also assist children in memorizing prayers. 

PRAYERS to be memorized: Sign of the Cross, Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, Act of Contrition, and the Ten Commandments
 
Attendance at weekly Sunday Mass and holy days of obligation is an obligation of all Catholics. If your family is not currently meeting these obligations, we ask that you take the time to make them a priority in your life before enrolling your child in Sacramental Preparation. An understanding and appreciation for Mass is essential for the reception of First Reconciliation and First Communion.  

Diocesan policy states that these sacraments are to be received in the parish of which the candidate is a member. The catechesis must take place in the parish community and not at a local Catholic school. Bishop Bill has also expressed his desire for families to participate in their family catechesis program. Families with children in Sacramental Prep are expected to participate in Family Fully Alive. 
 
Please contact Mrs. Abbie Lim  [email protected] for additional information regarding the preparation of the sacraments of Penance and Eucharist.
 
MANDATORY-First Reconciliation and First Communion Information meeting: Sunday August 24^th at 9:30 AM in the Family Life Center- directly following Coffee and Donuts. Parents required, children welcome. 

Class dates will be discussed at the meeting. If you are unable to attend this meeting reach out to Abbie Lim directly.
First Eucharist Dress Rehearsal (Mandatory) May 2, 2026 at 10 AM. One parent must attend with child.  Group photo with Father Tom will be taken at this rehearsal.
 
First Eucharist Mass May 3, 2026 at 11 AM
Reception to follow in the Family Life Center.
 
DRESS CODE for First Holy Communion: 
Girls: white dress. No train. No strapless, or spaghetti strap without a sweater. Veil and white shoes preferred.
Boys: White shirt, dark slacks, tie, and dress shoes. Suit coat is acceptable but not required. 

"After study, consultation, and prayer, I have decided that the age for the Sacrament of Confirmation for children in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee will be moved to an earlier age. Beginning in 2025, we will be moving gradually and methodically toward a "restored order" of the Sacraments of Initiation that will be completed in 2028. Practically speaking, this means that children, around the age of discretion (7), will receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist (First Communion) at the same Mass when properly catechized and disposed." - Most Rev. William A. Wack, CSC

For more information about Restored Order and to read our Bishop's Letter, please visit: https://www.ptdiocese.org/restoredorder

Register in person in your students classroom, or register online HERE.