“Through Baptism, we become children of God.  In the Eucharist, Jesus welcomes us to the banquet of his love and gives us his Body and Blood as spiritual food for our journey of faith.  The church teaches that the Eucharist is "the food of the new life."  CCC 1244

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion are important steps in your child’s lifelong journey with Jesus Christ. The family is the primary educator in faith, while the parish and school support parents in this sacred responsibility.

Children prepare for these sacraments during second grade. Registration is required for all, regardless if they attend St. John Nepomuk school or Sunday morning Childhood Ministry Formation Class.  Attendance is also required at designated parent meetings, sacramental gatherings, and retreats throughout the year.

Preparing Your Child for First Reconciliation

First Reconciliation introduces children to the mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ. Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, children learn to recognize sin, seek forgiveness, and experience God’s loving mercy. This preparation continues throughout their lives as they grow in their understanding of conversion and discipleship.

Preparing Your Child for First Holy Communion

Preparation for First Holy Communion helps children understand the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and participate more fully in the celebration of Mass. First Holy Communion is a joyful encounter with Jesus and the beginning of a lifelong relationship with him through frequent reception of the Eucharist.

First Holy Communion is preceded by sacramental Confession and absolution. Children should receive sufficient instruction and be prepared to participate reverently in the Mass.

Parents and guardians play an essential role by praying with their children, attending Sunday Mass as a family, and supporting their continued growth in faith. First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion are not simply ceremonies; they are important steps in a child’s lifelong journey with Jesus and his Church. 

For information on these programs please contact our Parish Office and speak with our Director of Faith Formation,

Jo Anna Bannister or email jbannister@sjnok.org.