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Eucharist

The Eucharist is the heart of the Church’s life, forming the foundation of Christian initiation along with Baptism and Confirmation. At Mass, we gather around the altar, where Jesus gives himself to us under the signs of bread and wine, allowing us to participate in his Passion, death, and Resurrection.

Eucharist means “thanksgiving”—Jesus’ supreme act of thanks to the Father—and through Holy Communion, we are united to him and receive a foretaste of heaven. This sacrament strengthens our relationship with God and one another and binds us to the Church. As Pope Francis reminds us, attending Mass is essential to encounter Christ, who saves and unites us.

When is Mass Celebrated in our Parish? 

Mass times are:

  • Saturday: 5:00 p.m.

  • Sunday: 9:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.

  • Monday: No Mass

  • Tuesday - Friday: 6:30 p.m.

First Eucharist Registration

Our 2025-2026 Catechetical Year has begun! Registration for the 2025–2026 Sacrament Preparation Program is now closed. Registration for the 2026–2027 program will begin in the fall of 2026.As outlined in the Archdiocese of St. Boniface Catechetical Policy (which can be found here), ongoing catechism is required prior to participation in all Sacrament Preparation programs. If you have any questions about our family faith formation program, please contact the parish office.

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 age eight or older. As each child ages and develops differently, we suggest children begin Sacrament preparation once they’ve begun to understand reason and Faith. 

What preparation is required for my child to celebrate their first Eucharist?

Children preparing to receive the Sacrament of First Eucharist must be baptised into the Roman Catholic Church and must have celebrated their First Reconciliation. Before celebrating their First Eucharist, children must complete a minimum of twenty hours in an ongoing program of catechesis (either catechism classes or in a Catholic school). These sessions assist the parents in initiating their children into the fullness of Christian life. In addition to participating in an ongoing program of catechesis, children must complete six sessions of sacramental catechesis before they can receive the Sacrament of First Eucharist. These are catechetical sessions offered specifically to prepare children to receive the Sacraments. Since Eucharistic celebrations are at the heart of our faith, children are expected to participate in Mass with their families each week. It is also expected that children be reasonably familiar with what happens at Mass.

Are There Requirements of the Parents Who Wish to Have Their Child Celebrate Their First Reconciliation?

Our Sacrament Preparation Program is family-based, meaning that parents and children attend the sessions together. While children participate in their classes, parents engage in the Household of Faith process. These gatherings provide parents the opportunity to build friendships, grow in faith and reflect on the Holy Scriptures using a simple guided process, helping them support their children’s faith formation. This approach recognizes parents as the primary educators of their children in the faith and provides a meaningful opportunity for families to grow together. Both parents are encouraged to attend all preparation sessions. If time constraints are an issue, parents can speak with our Sacrament Preparation Coordinator to make alternative arrangements.

When are first Eucharist preparation sessions?

Sacrament preparation sessions take place Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. After you have registered your child for the program​, our Sacrament Preparation Coordinator will send you the 2025-2026 Sacrament preparation schedule.

Are There Costs Associated With Sacrament Preparation?

Yes. There is a $30.00 fee for the first child and $10.00 for each additional child for Sacrament preparation in our church. This helps to cover the cost of the materials used during the preparation sessions. 

St. Gerard Church

1-204-667-0523

stgerpar@gmail.com

​

45 Foster Street

Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

R2L 1V8

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