First Holy Communion and the Eucharist

The Second Sacrament of Initiation

First Holy Communion is the second Sacrament of initiation, which continues the journey first begun at baptism.

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As Catholics we believe that Christ is fully present in the Eucharist and so, receiving it for the first time requires deeply profound and faithful preparation.  

First Holy Communion Preparation Courses
St Mary’s offers a First Holy Communion preparation course for children who have attended mass regularly for at least a year and who live within the Parish boundary.

The preparation course begins in September with specific dates advertised in the Parish newsletter. Application forms are made available towards the end of the summer term.
 
A baptised child's First Communion is usually celebrated around age seven or eight and is preceded by their first confession (the sacrament of Reconciliation).

The Eucharist

Receiving the Eucharist is the central rite of Catholic worship. Regularly receiving Holy Communion is considered the greatest Sacrament as it strengthens our relationship with Christ, and gives Him a specific opportunity to fortify us, which helps us live a Christian life.

As Catholics, we take Jesus at his word when he says ‘This is my body, which is given for you’ (Luke 22:19). We believe the Eucharist is the real physical and spiritual presence of Jesus Christ.