First Eucharist
First Eucharist at SJC
**The Archdiocese of Chicago requires a two year period of preparation for children to receive the Sacrament of First Eucharist. This is traditionally done during 1st and 2nd grades. (Of course, there are exceptions, contact our office with special questions)
Timeline of First Eucharist Prep
Kindergarten & 1st Grade
In these first years of preparation, our young people learn their basic prayers, get familiar with the church, the vessels and vestments, and the teachings of grace and sin. All content is taught in a method befitting there grade level(ex. activity based, story-time, games and multimedia).
2nd Grade
In this final year of preparation, students will be taught more heavily on the True Presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the parts of the Mass, and the liturgical calendar(with particular emphasis on the seasons of Advent, Lent, Christmas and Easter).
- Class Attendance: Students must maintain a record of good standing for attendance at all classes.
2. Sacramental Meetings: There are 2 meetings specific to First Eucharist. We will learn more about the sacrament itself and practice the big day itself. These are meant to help the day of First Eucharist go as smoothly as possible.
3. Records Form(Eucharist): This form must be completed by Thanksgiving Break each year. The Form includes legal name, place/date of birth, birthday, date/place of Baptism, Current address, parent’s name. CLICK HERE FOR FORM
4. Candlelit Reconciliation: Normally held in December each year. For our first reconciliation, we light the church purely by candle light and have soft music playing in the background.
5. Mini-Retreat: Normally held in March each year. Begins with Saturday morning Mass and ends just before noon. Students get a personal tour of the sacristy and all the sacred vessels and vestments.
6. First Eucharist: The day has arrived! Students will be dressed in white, with pew banners, family and friends on hand to celebrate the wonderful day.
