First Reconciliation and Holy Communion
March – June 2023
Registration for the 2023 programme has now closed
The preparation programme is aimed at those in the local catholic community and involves parents or caregivers taking responsibility for teaching their children the faith.
There are two components that run simultaneously: a programme is for the instruction of adults (i.e. parents and caregivers) and a programme for their children (Year 4+). There will also be homework linked to each session.
Prayer both in the home with your child and attendance at Mass in the Parish each Sunday are important parts of the sacramental preparation.
If you have any questions regarding the program please contact the Coordinator of Sacramental Ministries sacramental@christchurchsouth.org.nz
What is the Sacrament of First Holy Communion (Eucharist)?
Together with Baptism and Confirmation, the sacrament of Holy Eucharist (First Holy communion) is one of three “sacraments of Christian initiation” (CCC 1285).
The word Eucharist is Greek in origin, and means ‘thanksgiving’. The sacrament of Holy Eucharist is the ‘Source and Summit’ (CCC 1324-1327) of the Christian life, uniting us not only with one another but with the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins on the cross. For this reason the Eucharist is sometimes called ‘the Holy sacrifice of the altar’. The Eucharist is also the Sacrament of Christian unity, drawing all Christians into communion together as one body (1 Corinthians 10:17).
In the Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Jesus are truly, really, and substantially present. This presence is not merely symbolic or metaphorical – we hold true that through transubstantiation, the substance of the bread and wine are transformed into the true Body and Blood of Christ for the nourishment of our souls. This doctrine is drawn both from ancient tradition of the Church, preserved throughout the ages, as well as the clear teaching of Jesus in the scriptures (cf. John 6: 48-50, 53-57; Mt. 26:26-28; Luke 22:19)
Thus those who receive the Eucharist should prepare themselves accordingly, through prayer, formation and regular confession (1 Corinthians 11:27-30).
This three minute video is a helpful summary of the sacrament.