Twelve Apostles

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First Communion and Reconciliation

- Sacraments

The Sacrament of Eucharist, or Holy Communion is "an outward sign of an inward grace instituted by Christ".

The Sacrament of Reconciliation or Penance, instituted by Christ in which forgiveness of sins committed after Baptism is granted through the priest's absolution to those who with true sorrow confess their sins and promise to satisfy for the same.

Children are typically prepared for First Confession and First Communion in second grade. Prior to entering the Sacramental year, children must have completed at least one year of religious education.

Before making First Confession and First Communion a person has to be living as a follower of Jesus in the context of the Catholic Church. This means one has to be a baptized Catholic keeping the promises made at Baptism by living according to the practices of the Catholic Church. Specifically, one must:
a) abide by the Ten Commandments and the rules of the Catholic Church.
b) go to Mass every Sunday and Holy Day.
c) have knowledge of the Faith appropriate to one’s age level. This is determined by our Religious Education Director. The appropriate level of knowledge can be judged in accordance with the contents of the student’s Home Study Guide which each teacher has for their grade and which is given to each student when classes begin.
d) have attended at least one year of Religious Education prior to 2nd grade. Families new to the parish must furnish proof of attendance, i.e. a letter from the previous parish DRE or Pastor.
e) the family must be registered members of a parish, and, within their financial means, contributing to the support of the church.
Children who are baptized after “the age of discretion” will receive instruction separate from PSR classes. Families will meet with the Pastor and DRE to make the appropriate arrangements.