THe Eucharist
The Eucharist is the heart of the Church’s life. Along with Baptism and Confirmation, it forms the foundation of Christian initiation and is the source of the Church’s life itself. From this Sacrament of love flows our faith, unity and mission.
At Mass, we gather around the altar—the place of both banquet and sacrifice. Here, Jesus gives himself to us under the signs of bread and wine. Just as he did at the Last Supper, he says: “Take, eat... this is my body... Take, drink... this is my blood.” This is not a mere remembrance; teach time we celebrate, we participate in the mystery of Christ’s Passion, death, and Resurrection.
“Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” It is Jesus’ supreme act of thanks to the Father, and in it, we are united to that same offering. Through Holy Communion, we are profoundly conformed to Christ and receive a foretaste of heaven itself.
The Eucharist renews our hearts, strengthens our relationship with God and others, and binds us to the Church. “It is so important to go to Mass on Sunday,” Pope Francis urges—not only to pray, but to receive Christ, who saves and unites us.
This gift begins with First Communion, a milestone in a child’s faith journey. Let us never take this Sacrament for granted, but continually ask God to deepen our love for the Eucharist, which keeps his presence alive among us.
(based on Pope Francis, General Audience, 5 February 2014)
When is Mass Celebrated in our Parish?
Mass times are:
-
Saturday: 5:00 p.m.
-
Sunday: 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
-
Monday – Friday: 7:00 p.m.
First Eucharist
Registration
Our 2024-2025 Sacrament preparation sessions have concluded. Congratulations to all the young people of our parish who received Holy Communion for the first time on May 25th! Registration dates for our 2025-2026 Sacrament preparation sessions will be announced in our parish bulletin and on our social media.
First Eucharist
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should a child first receive the sacrament of the Eucharist?
A child is invited to prepare for the Sacrament of the Eucharist when they are in Grade 2 or 3 or older. As each child ages and develops differently, we suggest children begin Sacrament preparation once they’ve begun to understand reason and Faith. Children must be baptised into the Roman Catholic Church, have celebrated their First Reconciliation, and be enrolled in an ongoing program of catechesis (either catechism classes or in a Catholic school). Preparations for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Sacrament of the Eucharist take place at the same time in our parish. If parents feel that their child is ready to prepare for Reconciliation, but not the Eucharist, we can make arrangements for their preparations.
What preparation is required for my child to celebrate their first Eucharist?
Preparation for first Eucharist includes four sessions with parents and regular participation in Sunday Mass. This is because the main topics discussed include parts of the Mass, particularly Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist. Regular attendance at Mass will allow children to apply and reinforce what they’ve learned during preparation sessions.
When are first Eucharist preparation sessions?
Sacrament preparation sessions take place Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. After you have registered your child for the program, our Sacrament Preparation Coordinator will send you the 2024/2025 Sacrament preparation schedule.
Are there requirements of the parents who wish to have their child celebrate their first Eucharist?
Both parents must attend all preparation sessions with their child. They must also regularly participate in Sunday Mass, guiding their children through the Mass, helping them learn and understand the liturgies. If time constraints are an issue, parents can speak with our Sacrament preparation coordinator to make alternative arrangements.
Are there costs associated with sacrament preparation?
Yes. Costs will cover instructional materials.