The Sacrament of First Holy Communion
Biblical basis:
- John 6:25-71 – Jesus promises the Eucharist.
- Last Supper Mt 26:26-30 – The Eucharist becomes reality.
- 1 Cor 11:23-32 – St. Paul speaks about the Eucharist which the early Christians were celebrating.
The Real Presence
Jesus is really and truly…wholly…entirely…present under the appearance of bread & wine. He is present: Body, Blood, Soul, & Divinity. His presence is not just symbolic or a “remembrance” of his past presence. He is there!
He is present just as fully & completely as He was when He walked this earth…and as He is now in heaven.
The Eucharist is the center of our Faith...because Jesus is the center...and the Eucharist is Jesus!
The Eucharist “is a sign of unity, a bond of charity, a paschal banquet, in which Christ is consumed, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us.” – CCC 1409
Adult First Communion
If you are an adult and have yet to prepare for First Holy Communion contact Sr. Mary Eileen for information regarding the RCIA program so that you can be prepared for both First Communion and Confirmation.
First Communion of Children
In the Diocese of Phoenix, children now receive First Holy Communion and Confirmation in third grade. They should begin preparing in second grade, however, we prepare older children also. First Communion and Confirmation are celebrated at the same Mass, usually in the spring during the Easter season. It is a truly beautiful opportunity for your child to complete his or her initiation into the Catholic Church. If you would like your child prepared for First Communion and Confirmation please enroll them in the Religious Education (“RE”) program at the Newman Center. Contact Sr. Mary Eileen at srjewell@asucatholic.org.
