Thanks to those of you whose schedules allowed you to attend one of the sessions on first Communion. If you were not able to attend we will try to get you a copy of the handbook which was provided at that meeting. Here are a few important ways you can help us prepare for your child’s first communion:
BAPTISM INFORMATION: So that your child’s first communion is properly recorded, we ask you to please return the attached information sheet regarding your child’s baptism.
If your child was not baptized at St. Thomas Aquinas or at St. John we will need a photocopy of your child’s baptismal certificate in addition to the completed information form.
If your child was baptized at St. Thomas Aquinas or St. John: When you fill out and return the information sheet regarding your child’s baptism you are helping us out a great deal! The information we request is exactly what we are required to record in the First Communion Ledger. While it is true that each child’s baptismal information is on record in the big books in the parish safe, it is a time-consuming and cumbersome procedure to extract it for so many children! Please fill this sheet out completely. We’ve noticed that some people neglect to put down their child’s age, for example. Yes, we can figure this out by looking at the dates, but doing this for so many children gets wearisome; that’s why your help is so appreciated.
SOLEMN/INDIVIDUAL FIRST COMMUNION: We are hoping that most children will be present on May 1 for the Solemn First Communion Mass even if he/she has already, or will celebrate the Sacrament in a special way individually with his or her parents and family. You cannot celebrate something so wonderful too much! Children usually develop a sense of community with their classmates and catechist and are excited about the corporate celebration, even if it is not the family’s primary celebration. In a few weeks we will begin practicing for the May 1 celebration in class, so if your child will not be present, please let me or your catechist know!
RETREAT AFTERNOON – After listening to your thoughts, it seems most convenient for the retreat to begin at 1 a.m. on Saturday, April 24. It will conclude at 3:30 p.m. More details will follow. If you can help, please let me know!
MASS OF EXPLANATION – Almost ever year we celebrate a Mass of Explanation prior to first communion. Fr. Joe generously agreed to celebrate this with us this year. Watch for further information; we will provide a date as soon as possible!
PREPARING FOR FIRST COMMUNION: Remember that the very best preparation for First Communion is going to Mass! It is always helpful for children if they can sit up close. One of the primary aspects of our preparation is familiarizing children with the parts of the Mass, and their significance, as well as helping them to recognize the people and items that they see at Mass. Conversations with you, and the opportunity to really see what we are talking about, will be very helpful.
In Christ,
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