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Family Preparation for First Sacraments

At St. James, we celebrate sacraments with a family emphasis. The family unit, in all its possible forms, is critically important in our parish and our community. Our process might be very different than your past experiences. First, our preparation for the first Sacraments of Reconciliation (Confession) and Communion involves both parent(s) and the child. Parents are the first and primary teachers of the faith. Your child learns best from you. During the sessions, we help you to explore faith and the sacraments with your child. Second, our process is ungraded, in other words, there is no set grade for the reception of the sacraments. You, as parents, know your child better than anyone else. You decide when they are ready. At the information session we will give you information to help you decide. We know that you, like many before you, will enjoy this time with your child.

Diocesan Policy on Communion
Important Note:
The full and official Diocesan Policy for all the Sacraments can be found on the diocese web site by clicking here.

At St. James Parish Family, we are in compliance with the policy of the Diocese of Phoenix regarding the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion. The policy states that there will be one sacrament received per year. Only children older than fifth grade will be able to receive both sacraments in the same year. This requirement is intended to give each sacrament its own dignity, equal emphasis and importance. It is easy to rush over the Sacrament of Reconciliation as merely a requirement for First Communion. Each Sacrament is of equal importance and each is very important to who we are as Catholics. Your child may not receive First Reconciliation and First Communion in the same year. The policy also affirms the importance of family participation in sacramental preparation. This policy, in its entirety, is available in the parish office.

Your family must be enrolled and attending Generations of Faith for the entire year to be eligible for the preparation of either Sacrament.

First Communion

The purpose of the preparation sessions for First Communion is to help the children recognize the very special gift that Jesus gave us when He died for us and gave us the everlasting gift of His Precious Body and Blood. The children will share what they know about Jesus and His life, learn about the parts of our Mass, learn about the things used at Mass, understand the history of our Mass, and understand and believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

Communion

Requirements
All participants must:
1. Be Baptized and supply a copy of their Baptismal Certificate,
2. Be attending Generations of Faith sessions for the entire current year,
3. Attend all sessions for Reconciliation and First Communion.

Session Dates

First Communion Preparation Sessions

ALL SESSIONS ARE FROM 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

There will be a $10.00 fee to cover materials for this program. No one will be denied due to an inability to pay.