The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist
By Ms. Teresa Elligson, with Mrs. Marie Lybolt

 
The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist is normally celebrated after the child has received the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

It is the responsibility of the parent(s) to give the immediate preparation for this Sacrament.  The Religious Education Office will provide the text, parent information, videos and any other assistance needed.  A materials fee ($30.00 payable at the parent meeting) helps defray the cost of the program.  A copy of the child’s Baptismal certificate is required at the time of the Parent Meeting.

Requirements

1. The family must be registered members of St. Joseph Parish.

2. Each child must have completed one year of a parish/school religious education program and be currently enrolled.

3. Each child is usually in the 2nd grade AND has reached the “age of reason” (7 years old or older) to begin sacramental preparation.

4. Each child has received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, or, after completion of the Reconciliation preparation program, the parent(s) has discussed – in person – with the Director of Religious Education, the School Principal or one of the parish priests why the child is not ready to receive Reconciliation.

5. The parent(s) must attend the scheduled Parent Meeting where registration takes place.

6. The child prays and attends Mass each Saturday/Sunday with the family.

7. The child’s parent uses the provided Eucharist workbook with the child at home.

8. Each child, accompanied by his/her parent(s), attends the Eucharist workshop and Teaching Mass.

9. Each child and his/her parent(s) meets with a St. Joseph staff person with their completed book.

10. The child may celebrate First Eucharist at most scheduled weekend Masses outside of Lent (with the approval of the Religious Education Office) or at the Parish General Celebration in May.

Program Structure

1. Parent Meeting
2. Rite of Blessing
3. Workshop
4. Teaching Mass
5. Visit with one of our parish staff. (by appointment)
6. Celebration

 

Program Dates and Times

Current dates and times are available through the Religious Education office.

No First Eucharist Celebrations will take place during Lent (usually February thru March).  Lent traditionally is a time of sacramental preparation – a time of prayer, study and attending Mass.

Individual Eucharist Celebrations normally begin after Easter (April through the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ.)