Eucharist
What is Holy Eucharist (Communion)?
In the Catholic Church, the Eucharist, also known as the Lord's Supper, is a central sacrament and act of worship where bread and wine are transformed into the body and blood of Jesus Christ through the words of consecration spoken by a priest. It is seen as a memorial of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and a means of grace, offering spiritual nourishment and union with Christ.
Several rules and guidelines govern the reception of the Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion. These include being in a state of grace, fasting from food and drink for at least an hour before reception (except water and medicine), and avoiding any grave sin unless a situation necessitates it, according to the National Catholic Register and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.
It is encouraged to receive Communion devoutly and frequently. Individuals are also encouraged to make a prayer of thanksgiving after receiving the Eucharist.
What is First Holy Eucharist (Communion)?
First Holy Communion is a joyful and sacred milestone in a Catholic child's faith journey. It is the first time a person receives the Eucharist—the true Body and Blood of Jesus Christ—during the celebration of the Mass.
In the Catholic Church, this sacrament is typically received around the age of seven or eight, when a child is capable of understanding the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Before receiving First Communion, children participate in a period of preparation and formation, learning about the Mass, the meaning of the Eucharist, and how to receive Jesus with reverence and love.
This special day marks a deeper participation in the life of the Church and the grace of the sacraments.
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
— John 6:51
Welcome
First Holy Communion is a treasured moment in your child’s faith journey—receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time.
At St. Catherine of Siena Church, children typically prepare for this sacrament in 2nd grade through our parish Religious Education program.
Enrollment in the First Communion program requires participation in ongoing faith formation, completion of First Reconciliation, and attendance at scheduled parent meetings, retreats, and practices. Parents play a vital role in helping their children grow in understanding and love for the Eucharist.
We look forward to walking with your family during this special time of grace and joy!
For more information or to begin the enrollment process, please contact the Religious Education Office.
At St. Catherine of Siena Church, preparation for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion is a two-year process, typically beginning in Grade 1.
- Level 1 (usually Grade 1):
Children begin learning the foundations of our Catholic faith—God’s love, creation, basic prayers, and the life of Jesus. This year lays the spiritual groundwork for receiving the sacraments.
- Level 2 (usually Grade 2):
Children focus on the meaning of forgiveness and the Eucharist. During this year, they prepare for and celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) and then receive First Holy Communion in the spring.
Both levels require consistent class attendance, parent involvement, and participation in parish Mass and sacramental events.
If your child is in 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade and has not made his Reconciliation or Communion we will place them in the appropriate PREP class to receive the sacrament.
To enroll or for more information, please contact the Religious Education Office. We look forward to supporting your family on this beautiful journey of faith!
Preparing Children for First Holy Communion
To prepare your child for First Holy Communion, they must attend our PREP program, this is a two-year program. Families must be a registered parishioner and your child must be baptized.
At your child’s Baptism you, the parents, were told that you “would be the first and best teachers of your children in the way of faith.” Parental involvement in the preparation of your child for First Holy Communion is paramount.
The parish helps, but does not replace your part in the process of leading your children in the development of their faith, through the development and example of your own life.
The best preparation for the Eucharist is taking your child to Mass regularly and helping your child understand what it is all about.
First Holy Eucharist (Youth/ Teens)
Youth/ Teens receive religious instruction which helps them understand the sacrament, its meaning, and prepares them for the commitment of faith.
Contact the Parish Office at 732-938-5375 or email us at prep@sienachurch.org.
First Holy Eucharist (Adult)
Adults are also given the First Holy Eucharist Sacrament, and they typically undergo a period of preparation called the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults.
