At the Basilica of Saint Peter, students ages 8–13 who have not yet received the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, but are ready to prepare for them, will participate in a supplemental Sacramental Preparation class.

 

Students will attend their regular Religious Education class with their grade-level peers each week. Once a month, however, they will be excused from their grade-level class to participate in a focused lesson on preparing to receive these important sacraments. Throughout the year, students will learn about God's mercy and forgiveness through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the importance of examining their conscience, and how to make a good confession. They will also study the Holy Eucharist, coming to understand the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, and the tremendous privilege of receiving Our Lord in Holy Communion. After successfully completing their preparation, students will celebrate the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion, marking an important milestone in their journey of faith.

 

Receiving these sacraments is not the end of a student's faith formation while they wait for Confirmation—it is only the beginning. Faith formation is a lifelong journey of growing closer to Christ. We encourage all families to reenroll their children each year so they may continue to deepen their relationship with the Lord, grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith, and become faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.