First Holy Communion
Office of Religious Education and Faith Formation
Contact Information:
P. O. Box 7417
Alexandria, LA 71303
Phone: (318) 445-2401, Ext. 207
Fax: (318) 448-6121
Matthew 26:26-29 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, “Take and eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you ,for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, from now on I shall not drink this fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it with you new in the kingdom of my Father.”
The inexhaustible richness of this sacrament is expressed in the different names we give it. Each name evokes certain aspects of it.
It is called: Eucharist, because it is an action of thanksgiving to God. The Greek words eucharistein and eulogein recall the Jewish blessings that proclaim-especially during a meal- God’s works: creation, redemption, and sanctification.” (CCC #1328). It “makes present the one sacrifice of Christ the Savior.” (CCC #1330). The source and summit of the Christian life, the term Eucharist has its roots from the Greek word “eucharistia”, meaning thanksgiving. The Sacrament of First communion, is truly the third of seven sacraments, after Baptism and First Reconciliation. Typically performed at the age of reason, 7 years old, it is usually aligned with those in the second grade. To prepare children for the reception of the real presence of Christ, one to two years of formation are typical. Catholics should be in a state of grace to receive the Blessed Sacrament so First Reconciliation may occur just prior to children receiving their First Communion.
For more information on First Holy Communion, please contact your parish church office, click on the below link or call the Office of Religious Education and Faith Formation office at the St Joseph Center at (318) 445-6424, ext. 207.