EUCHARIST
Since the final days of Christ's earthly life, his followers have celebrated the Eucharist. In the Eucharist, we receive everything we need to live as Christians, and it represents the highest expression of our faith. This is why the Second Vatican Council referred to the celebration of the Eucharist as the "source and summit" of Christian life.
The Eucharist, a term derived from the Greek word for "thanksgiving," celebrates Jesus' presence in four significant ways: through the Word of God, in the assembly of believers, in the person of the priest, and especially in the sacrament of the altar. As Catholics, we reserve the Eucharistic elements in the tabernacle to ensure they are available for the sick, those in prison, and the homebound who cannot join us for Sunday Mass.
Receiving Communion is an ongoing initiation into the life of Christ. Therefore, the first time someone receives the Body and Blood of Christ is considered a special and significant occasion.
Receiving the Eucharist for the First Time
For Children: we continue the tradition of celebrating a special event for young children receiving the Eucharist for the first time, also known as First Holy Communion. This festive occasion is an opportunity to celebrate with family and friends. If you wish for your child to receive their First Holy Communion, please contact the parish office to enroll them in the religious education program.
For Adults: Baptized adults who have not yet received the Eucharist for the first time are generally required to participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). This process culminates annually at the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night, during which the parish community celebrates the baptism, confirmation, and first reception of the Eucharist for adults, as well as the reception into the Catholic Church of adults baptized and raised in other Christian traditions. For more information, please contact the parish office.