What can parents do to prepare their children for First Holy Communion?

“God is always first and makes the first move. God is encountered walking, along the path.”           Pope Francis

Parents set their children on the path at birth. The family home is the place where religious faith and spiritual awareness of children is first nurtured.  Family life is holy; it is sacred.  As children experience God moments which occur daily and in the relationships of family life, their friendship with God deepens. The parish community supports their growth in faith and helps them respond to Jesus’ invitation to follow him.

What can parents do to support their children ?

• Pray with them. Talk with them about your “God Moments.”
• Tell them bible stories. Answer their questions.
• Make Mass a family event. Point out something each week for your children to look for at church.  Before Mass decide as a family what you will pray for during the Intercessory Prayer.  Continue to pray for this intention during the coming week.
• Celebrate children’s Baptismal Anniversaries. Have a family treat while enjoying memories and pictures of the special day.
• Enjoy living a beautiful Catholic life EVERY DAY !

The first step in preparing children and youth to receive Holy Communion and Confirmation is regular attendance at Mass on Sunday.