Eucharist

mass times
Wednesday | 4:30 pm Friday | noon Saturday | 4:30 pm Sunday | 11:00 am Domingo | 12:30 pm (español)
First Communion
Communion is our coming together as a community to “give thanks” to our loving God in Jesus. In the Eucharist, Jesus living and present gives himself to us under the appearance of bread and wine. In receiving him, we become one with him and all believers. Our sacramental preparation program for First Eucharist is designed for baptized children. The program includes classes for two school years, and all students are required to attend a First Eucharist Retreat at the end of the 2nd year. Classes meet on Sunday mornings from 9:30 - 10:30 am, during the school year. The Sacrament of First Holy Communion will be celebrated on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
First Communion Registration
Registration for the 2024/25 school year is now open. Visit the Parish Religous Education Program page for registration information.
Child's Readiness
Children typically receive the Sacrament of First Communion in Grade 2, but not all children are ready at this age. Children may be ready to prepare for the Sacrament of First Eucharist when they meet the following:
  • An awareness that God loves them
  • Regular attendance and participation in Sunday Mass (they should no longer be going to Children's Liturgy of the Word)
  • Participation in the Sacrament of Reconciliation (we will prepare for First Reconciliation as a part of the class)
  • Regular attendance and participation in First Communion Classes
  • Prayer as a part of child’s life
  • Interest in learning about the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist
Classroom Component
All parents are required to attend the parent meeting, scheduled for Sunday, August 25 at 10 am. Classes will meet on Sundays, 9:30-10:30 am, during the entire school year. The first day of class is Sunday, September 8. At least one Parent will be required to attend the First Communion Classes with the child. We are using the Renewed and Received curriculum, published by Ascension. Students must attend all scheduled classes. Only 3 absences are allowed.
Retreat Component
All candidates for First Communion are required, with their parent(s), to attend our First Communion Day-Retreat on Saturday, April 26, 2025. The retreat will be from 10 am - 3 pm and will include lunch and the Sacrament of Reconcilation for children and parents. The retreat is a required component for First Communion preparation.
Family Component
At least one parent must attend all First Communion Classes as well as the First Communion Retreat with the child. Please work with your child at home and at Mass on the following:
  • Full Participation in Mass (if they do not have the prayers and responses memorized, show them where to find it in the Missal; make sure they are participating in Mass; they should not be going to Children's Liturgy of the Word)
  • Teach them how to approach the Altar and stand in Communion line with hands folded in prayer
  • Teach them to genuflect or bow when approaching the Altar and before receiving the Eucharist
  • Respond by saying “Amen” after the Priest says “The Body of Christ” and “The Blood of Christ”
  • How to receive the Eucharist on the tongue and in the hand (they will receive on the tongue at First Communion)
  • Respond by making the Sign of the Cross after receiving the Eucharist
For more information on Youth Sacraments, please contact: Jessica Sarver Coordinator of Communications & Parish Ministries Communications@NorthClarkCountyCatholic.org
First Communion Photos
Click each link below to view photos from this year's First Communion.
contact
101 St. Michaels Drive Charlestown, IN 47111
Parish Office: 812-256-3200, stmichaelsecretary@northclarkcountycatholic.org School Office: 812-256-3503, director@northclarkcountycatholic.org
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