Since the Eucharist is the heart of Christian life, a child continually grows in his or her understanding and living the meaning of the sacrament. Ongoing catechesis on the Eucharist…is an integral element of all grades of the systematical catechetical effort in the parish, homeschooling or Catholic school religious education program (Signs of God’s Love).

Systematic catechesis needs to convey the message of the Gospel – commitment to further involvement in the community and that “the Eucharist is the heart and summit of the church’s life” (CCC 1407).

The parish catechesis program, along with the parents, provides an understanding of sacrament and preserves, increases and renews the life of grace received at Baptism. Children will have an awareness of the main events of Jesus’ life, the Eucharist as meal, and the Eucharist as the Body and Blood of Christ, or at least, an understanding that this bread and wine is different from regular bread and wine (Signs of God’s Love).

Immediate preparation for the Sacrament of Eucharist is a free standing program. The child must have reached the age of reason (age 7 or above) and shows a readiness for this sacrament.  Your child must be enrolled in an approved religious education program one year prior to receiving a Sacrament. A separate form will need to be completed for the Sacramental class. If your child is eligible and ready to prepare for Eucharist they must also be enrolled in a current Faith Formation program unless attending an accredited Catholic school.  The celebration of Eucharist follows the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

See this page for forms: Faith Formation Forms