Sacramental Preparation
First Reconciliation and Eucharist
Jesus Christ is truly present in our midst. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is an encounter with Jesus resulting in the forgiveness of sins and restoring us to God’s grace. The Eucharist is the most profound way we encounter the real presence of Jesus Christ. In the Archdiocese of Washington, children celebrate the sacrament of Reconciliation prior to First Eucharist. Many children prepare for and celebrate Reconciliation for the first time around the age of seven.
How do you know if your son or daughter is ready to receive First Reconciliation? Click here.
Does your son or daughter meet these requirements for preparation to celebrate these sacraments?
- Is he/she at least seven years old?
- Has he/she been baptized in the Catholic Church?
- Has he/she been enrolled for at least two years (including the 2022-2023 school year) in
- A parish school?
- A faith formation program?
- An independent Catholic school?
If the answer to all three questions is yes, then you can begin the preparation process!
- Complete the online enrollment process by August 15, 2022. Click here to begin the online registration process for First Reconciliation/First Eucharist. Please note: This is a separate process from enrolling in a faith formation program.
- Plan to actively participate in the preparation. Part of the preparation for Reconciliation and Eucharist is the conversation and discussion you will have with your child at home. You will receive sacramental textbooks that your child will complete with your help. In the winter you will complete the Reconciliation textbook together. In the spring you will complete the Eucharist textbook.
There are two parent meetings for each sacrament, and it is expected that parents attend both.
Important dates COMING SOON