Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

2020 First Reconciliation/First Holy Communion

Dear Parents,

Bishop Gregory Parkes issued a letter in which he has temporarily suspended the public celebration of Masses in the Diocese of St. Petersburg, in light of continued concerns over the Coronavirus Pandemic. This suspension was effective immediately on March 18th.   Although the date of these sacraments is not known due to the current status, the children will continue to prepare for the moment of receiving the fullness of Jesus who calls them by name.

First Holy Communion Preparation

Preparation for First Holy Communion is, first and foremost, parents taking their child to Mass, letting the child observe the parent’s reverential reception of the Eucharist, and talking about what it means to receive Jesus Christ, “body, blood, soul and divinity.”  By observing their child’s interest and questions, the parent can help the catechist determine whether the child is ready to receive this Sacrament with full awareness.
Here are some of the things to share with your child that the catechist will be looking for: 

• Does your child know why you go to Mass?  (To receive Jesus, and to thank God for this great gift.)
• Does your child know why you fast for an hour before Mass? (To prepare yourself spiritually and physically to receive Jesus.)
• Does your child know that it is important to pray before and after receiving Jesus? (Share with your child your particular prayers of supplication and thanksgiving.)
• Does your child know to genuflect before the Tabernacle and how to hold his/her hands in prayer?  (Children learn best by your example.)

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​Moral Formation/Preparation for First Reconciliation 

Due to these circumstances, we will help you would prepare your child at home as a family for the following 6 weeks in order to ready them for the Sacrament of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion.  These sessions are scripture studies for the children, to present the framework of the Parables of Mercy and of the Eucharist.

Watch this video to find out how to get started this coming Sunday, March 29th

You will receive the meditations and instructions by email on the following Wednesdays:

• March 25, 2020           
• April 1, 2020            
• April 8, 2020  
• April 15, 2020  
• April 22, 2020  
• April 29, 2020

First Reconciliation/First Holy Communion Registration for 2021 will be at our informational meeting this fall.