Immaculate Conception Parish
Contact:  Kathryn Gallagher, Pastoral Assistant for Faith Formation

SACRAMENTAL PREPARATION

First Reconciliation and First Eucharist:

• Baptized children who have been enrolled in the parish’s faith formation program for one year and who are at least 7 years old may begin proximate preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist.  Formal catechetical instruction for First Reconciliation begins in September.  The sacrament is usually celebrated on a Saturday morning in January.  Preparation for First Communion begins in January.  The sacrament is celebrated in May.  At Immaculate Conception catechists and parents work together to prepare the children for the sacraments, therefore, attendance at the parent sessions in October and January and retreat day in April is required. In addition to teaching through living their Faith, parents use materials provided by the parish to reinforce what happens in the learning group and to help their children develop greater understanding and appreciation of the sacraments.

• Older baptized children who have had previous religious education but have not received the sacraments of Reconciliation or Eucharist are enrolled in the regular grade-level Faith Formation classes and  receive preparation for the sacraments through specialized instruction (a personalized schedule is worked out each year with families to meet the specific need).

• Baptized Catholic adults who have been inactive in the practice of their faith and who wish to update their understanding of Catholicism in preparation to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist for the first time are encouraged to contact the Faith Formation Office.  A variety of adult learning experiences are available to accommodate the needs and schedule of the inquirer.