First Communion in the Catholic Church

Do you want to know the clear meaning of the first communion? And know exactly the steps to follow to better organize this celebration?

Our team has looked into the subject. In short:

First Communion is considered a festive occasion. It signifies that children have studied and understood, to the best of their ability, the mystery of transubstantiation. They have understood the transformation of the substance of ordinary bread and wine into the substance of the body and blood of Christ.

As you progress in your reading, you will discover:

• The clear meaning of first communion,
• Where and when does this first communion take place,
• How is the First Communion ceremony organized?

Let's get to the heart of the matter!

What is a First Communion?

First Communion is a religious ceremony celebrated in the Catholic Church . This ceremony is celebrated by Catholics when a child partakes of the bread and wine also known as the Eucharist for the first time. The bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ.

After this special occasion, the child is able to accept the bread and wine at the Catholic Mass (religious services). He is more deeply initiated into the Catholic Church. It is necessary that the child has been baptized before his First Communion.

Origin of First Communion

The Last Supper that Jesus Christ celebrated with the twelve apostles is considered the origin of this ritual, the "first communion". As a ceremonial and sacramental act , it has its origin in the 13th century, more precisely in 1215. The first communion appeared when the Council of Letran decided that only children who had reached "the age of discretion, between twelve and fourteen years, could receive this sacrament." In the 13th and 17th centuries, the first communion was an act that went unnoticed socially.

It was unnoticed since children were not considered relevant subjects within medieval society. It was only after the Counter-Reformation that the ceremony gained importance. In response to the Lutheran Reformation that, from its beginnings, valued minors much more and, therefore, became an important event in the life of Man. During the 20th century, the First Communion established itself as a very important ceremony in the life of Catholics .

What is the meaning of First Communion?

First Communion is considered one of the most holy and important occasions in the life of a Roman Catholic . It signifies that this person has received the sacrament of the Eucharist , the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Most Catholic children receive their First Communion at the age of seven or eight, as this is considered the age of reason. Others may receive their first Communion when they have met all the requirements of the Church. First Communion is a very important and holy day for Catholic children.

A very special day, because they receive, for the first time, the body and blood of Christ. By continuing to receive Holy Communion for the rest of their Christian life, Catholics follow the same path with the Lord Jesus Christ. These Catholic children believe from the first communion that they will share the eternal life of Christ. On the day of the first communion, and each time he receives communion thereafter, the participants must, out of respect for the body and blood of Christ, observe another rule. At least one hour before receiving the sacrament, they must fast, that is, he cannot eat any food.

Taking water and medicine, however, are exceptions. After First Communion, young Catholics are expected to attend church every Sunday, and they are encouraged to receive Communion frequently, even weekly. If a person has missed Sunday Mass without a valid reason or has committed a mortal sin, that person is expected to confess before receiving Communion again. Most Catholics go to confession at least once a year, usually during Lent.

Does every human being deserve first communion?

For anyone to receive Communion, that person must be without sin and in a state of grace . Traditionally, Catholic grandchildren make their first confession, or the sacrament of penance, a week before receiving their first Communion. During confession, the child will detail sins and misdeeds to a priest and receive a penance in exchange.

Penance usually consists of several prayers to be recited immediately upon leaving the confessional. Once the child is absolved of sin, she is ready to make her First Communion. Confession is not the only requirement for receiving the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. The sacrament of Baptism must have been received as well. A child, or any person, who is not baptized cannot receive communion.

If the child is baptized, he or she usually begins studying for First Communion in the first grade. Children who do not attend Catholic school attend religious instruction classes after school or on weekends. In most cases, for young children, at least two years of religious education must be completed before they can receive Communion for the first time.

Where and when does a first communion ceremony take place?

First Communion takes place in the Catholic Church as part of a "First Communion Mass." It is a special celebration that involves several children (communicants) receiving the sacrament at the same time, in a service open to the entire community.

Children are prepared for their special day by attending a series of classes at the local Catholic church or school. They will also have attended Mass regularly. First Communion Mass is usually held on a Saturday or Sunday, and often from May to July.

The importance of First Communion in the Catholic Church

First Eucharist or First Communion is the common name for a person's first reception of the sacrament of the Eucharist. Roman Catholics recognize the importance of this event because the Eucharist is the central point of the sacramental life of the Catholic Church.

A child, baptized into God's family, now takes his place at the Lord's table. This is an important event for the child, the family and the parish community as a whole.

Who can attend the child's first communion?

Family, godparents and friends of the family will be invited to celebrate, as well as the religious community that meets every week. The child will be dressed, the girls in a pretty white dress and a veil, then the boys in a suit or a suit jacket.

Anyone attending a First Communion should dress appropriately for church modestly and smartly, but not too much. Sports jackets for men or elegant shirts and trousers are perfect. A nice dress or top and skirt for women are ideal.

The duration and manifestations during the first communion in the Catholic Church

The Mass will last about an hour although this can vary, sometimes up to 90 minutes. It will include prayers, hymns, readings, prayers of bidding and the communion itself.

Children will receive their Holy Communion first, and then all other worshipers will also be invited to receive Communion . If you are not Catholic, you can simply remain seated at this point.

How should one prepare for First Communion?

Sacramental preparation for First Communion usually begins at age 7 or usually in the ^2nd year of catechism and lasts one year. This preparation begins in early fall and involves parents and children.

Catechetical instruction in the year immediately preceding the beginning of the sacramental preparation process is required. There are many opportunities for training both in the Catholic Church.

Communion token

During the celebration of the first communion, if the family still carries the baptismal candle, it is lit to animate the place. This baptismal candle was held by the godparents during the baptism and is often encouraged to bring it. The lighting of the candles is often part of the service.

11 tips for organizing a First Communion

First Communion is an important and precious moment in the lives of young faithful and their families. In fact, it is the first time that the child is allowed to receive the Eucharist, after a long process of catechesis .

First Communion can therefore be considered one of the milestones of "Christian initiation", along with Baptism and Confirmation . Thus Pope Francis says: "Through this sacrament of love comes every authentic path of faith, communion and witness."

However, First Communion is also a festive occasion, and to make it truly memorable, here are some helpful tips.

• Plan your budget

You can plan your budget for a First Communion cake and food. The amount of food will depend on the number of people you plan to invite. If you are hosting a group of less than 20 people, you will prepare most of the food yourself.

You can serve a hearty lunch or dinner. Offer your guests communion cupcakes to welcome a party or also a cake . Make the most of the day and prepare as much food as possible in advance.

• Choose a location or venue

Plan a celebration at your home if you are only inviting a small group of friends and family then create an intimate setting. You can decorate your dining room or host a party in your backyard.

If you are inviting more than 20 people, you should consider renting a venue. You can also rent a banquet hall in a restaurant to accommodate your guests. If you have a large family or are planning to invite your extended family, renting a large space is suggested.

• Clothes for first communion

Young people about to receive the Lord's Supper will usually be given an alb that they will have to wear for the ceremony. To the alb, you can also add a dress to wear during communion or at the reception that follows. In general, the alb should be white and fairly simple in shape.

• Crowns or veils for first communion

Girls often choose a simple hairstyle, enriched with a white veil or a crown of flowers and ribbons. But boys style their hair to make themselves more beautiful.

• First Communion Candy Box

Favors will be given to the guests. They will naturally contain confetti and will represent a beautiful souvenir for the future. There are many types of favors for the first communion in the form of ornaments, small jewelry, rosaries , icons, etc.

• Souvenir gift for the community

It is customary for every child to receive a gift on this occasion, something important, especially from a symbolic point of view. A precious souvenir gift for these young school-age children is very important. If you are invited to this ceremony , choose a more pleasant or perhaps personalized first communion gift.

Even a prayer card can be given to those grandchildren who are celebrating their First Communion. A beautiful edition of the Gospel or the Bible, or a prayer book for each child can be a nice gift for the First Communion.

• Reception

This can be organized at home or at a restaurant, and should involve the child and their friends, so that they can really associate this day with a very special celebration.

• The communion cake

You can choose from the cute favors that include angels and crosses. You can also choose a personalized gift that has a photo of the honoree. Even the Bible or the rosary are also gifts for the first communion. The small favors that remind the guests what they are celebrating and why they always work best.

• The photo report

Like all major events, the First Communion deserves to be remembered and documented by a vast photographic report. If you do not want to rely on a professional, simply count on the enthusiasm of your friends and relatives.

• Decoration of the church

As decorations for the church or as a gift for the child, flowers will be a valuable asset. Strictly white, for tradition , for value and religious meaning. Pale pink is allowed. Flowers will be decorated with simple ribbons. Favorites are calla lilies, white roses, lilies, daisies.

• Photo album

If you want to take your First Communion, share this special day with your family or friends. Make sure you take enough pictures outside after the service for the Communion photo album. The family can even have a professional photographer.

Everything you need to know about First Communion

First Communion is known as a celebration of the Catholic Church. During which a faithful, participates for the first time in the sacrament of the Eucharist. During this event he receives the body and blood of Jesus Christ (First Communion). It is obligatory to receive this communion after the sacrament of baptism and that of penance or confession.

Confession is not the only requirement to receive the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist. The sacrament of baptism must have been received as well. A child, or any person, who is not baptized cannot receive communion. If the child is baptized, he or she usually begins studying for first communion in the first grade. For this Bible study, it is mandatory to be a catechist for three years. In most cases, for young children, at least two years of religious education must be completed before being able to receive communion for the first time.

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