Readiness to Receive the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Eucharist
Concerning a child’s readiness to prepare for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, parents can discern this by reflecting on the following questions:
For First Reconciliation
- Has the child been baptized and reached the age of reason (seven years old)?
- Does the child know the difference between right and wrong?
- Can the child distinguish between mistakes or accidents and deliberate wrongdoing?
- Can the child express sorrow for sin?
- Can the child forgive others?
- Does the child pray at home and at Mass?
- Does the child relate to Jesus as one who forgives?
From the Catholic Diocese of Richmond Instruction for Sacraments for First Penance
For First Eucharist
- Is the child interested in receiving Holy Communion?
- Does the child have a sense of belonging to the Catholic community?
- Does the child participate in the Sunday liturgy, according to his/her ability?
- Does the child relate to Jesus as one who loves and cares for him/her?
- Does the child understand that he/she is to care for others?
- Has the child prepared for and had an opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation?
From the Catholic Diocese of Richmond Instruction for Sacraments for First Eucharist
Once parents have discerned that their child is ready to begin sacramental preparation for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, they should attend a parents’ session to deepen their own understanding of the sacrament and to prepare for their role in the home learning component of the parish preparation program for First Reconciliation and First Eucharist.
The 1st Sacrament Parent Session at St. Stephen Martyr take place in the Fall (Sept/Oct time frame).