Eucharist

“While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins.’” —Matthew 26:26-28

Recalling these words of Jesus, the Catholic Church professes that, in the celebration of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and the instrumentality of the priest. The whole Christ is truly present, body, blood, soul, and divinity, under the appearances of bread and wine—the glorified Christ who rose from the dead after dying for our sins. This is what the Church means when she speaks of the “Real Presence” of Christ in the Eucharist. —United States Conference of Catholic Bishops

Children (Grade 1-8)
Preparing for First Reconciliation and First Communion is a two-year process starting in first grade. During this time children are introduced to Jesus and encouraged to become a better disciple by getting to know Him through the Gospels and life in the church. They are also shown the effect of God’s grace that are bestowed upon us in these sacraments and our responsibilities to God and the church after we receive them. Contact: Jeremiah Shoop, [email protected].

High School Youth (Grade 9-11)
Preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion is included in the two-year Confirmation Preparation Process. Contact: Jeremiah Shoop, [email protected].

Adults (18 and older)
Preparation for the Sacraments of Reconciliation and First Communion is included in the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). Contact: Deacon Chuck McDaniels, [email protected].