Your child’s second grade year or higher is an opportunity for you, as parents,  to reaffirm their commitment to the Catholic faith and to become refreshed and renewed in their faith life. This renewed commitment involves developing genuine desire to participate in the Eucharist and the sacramental life of the Church as well as a commitment to uphold the Precepts of the Church.

1. To attend Mass and rest from servile labor on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation
2. To receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation at least once a year, especially if aware of              committing a mortal sin.
3. To receive Holy Communion at least once a year, between the First Sunday of Lent and            Trinity Sunday.
4. To observe the fast and abstinence days established by the Church.
5. To contribute to the material support of the Church

First Holy Communion Program

The First Holy Communion Program follows the guidelines of the Diocese of St. Petersburg. It is a two-year preparation program:

First Holy Communion – Year I: to study about the basic catechesis of the Christian life.

First Holy Communion – Year II: to deepen the understanding of the two Sacraments: Reconciliation and Eucharist. After two years, the students will solemnly celebrate the reception of these two Sacraments.

Part of the preparation for receiving the Sacraments includes a Retreat day to provide a special time for prayer and more direct preparations. Specific schedule and details are provided at parents’ meetings.

Requirements for this program:

Year 1:

• 6 years of age and up
• Baptismal Certificate
• Participation in a parish based Faith Formation Program (CCD) or attending Catholic School.

Year 2:

• 7 years of age and up
• Baptismal Certificate
• Participation in a parish based Faith Formation Program (CCD) or attending Catholic School.