The Eucharist is at the heart of Catholic life. At every Mass, Jesus Christ makes Himself truly present and gives Himself to us in Holy Communion.
What is the Eucharist?
At Mass, by the power of the Holy Spirit and through the words of Christ spoken by the priest, the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. Their outward appearance remains unchanged, but Christ is truly present: Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity.
Holy Communion is not merely a symbol or reminder. We receive Christ Himself.
In the Mass, Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross is made sacramentally present, and the Church is united with His offering to the Father. The Eucharist strengthens our union with Christ, draws us more deeply into the life of the Church and gives us grace to live as His disciples.
This is why the Church calls it the “source and summit of the Christian life”.
Sunday Mass and Holy Days of Obligation
Catholics are obliged to attend Mass every Sunday and on Holy Days of Obligation, unless prevented by a serious reason, such as illness or caring for someone who cannot be left. The obligation can be fulfilled on the day itself or at a vigil Mass on the preceding evening.
Deliberately missing Mass on a Sunday or Holy Day of Obligation without a serious reason is a grave matter.
The obligation is to take part in Mass, not to receive Holy Communion at every Mass. Any Catholic who is not in a position to receive Communion is still obliged to attend and take part prayerfully.
Preparing to receive Holy Communion
Holy Communion is normally received by Catholics who are properly prepared and in a state of grace.
Before receiving, we should examine our conscience. Anyone conscious that they have committed a sin involving grave matter must receive absolution in Confession before coming to Holy Communion. The Catechism explains the distinction between mortal and venial sin.
Regular Confession helps us form our conscience, resist sin, receive Christ’s healing and grow in holiness. The Church strongly recommends it even when we are not conscious of having sinned in grave matter.
Catholics must also fast for at least one hour before receiving Holy Communion. Water and medicine do not break the fast.
We should approach Holy Communion prayerfully and reverently, remembering whom we are receiving.
First Holy Communion for children
First Holy Communion is the first time a child receives Christ in the Eucharist. It is a joyful occasion for the child, the family and the whole parish, and the beginning of a lifelong devotion to Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.
Preparation helps children understand, in a way appropriate to their age, that the Eucharist is truly the Body and Blood of Christ. They learn how to take part in Mass, pray and receive Holy Communion with faith and reverence.
Every child must receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and make their First Confession before receiving Holy Communion for the first time. This is an integral part of their preparation.
The role of parents and families
Parents have a vital part in preparing their child for First Holy Communion. The most important thing they can do is bring their child to Mass every Sunday, both during the preparation programme and afterwards.
Families are also encouraged to pray together, talk about what the child is learning and help them prepare for First Confession.
Some parents may be returning to Mass or rediscovering their faith. Please do not let this prevent you from getting in touch. The parish will help you take the next step.
Is First Holy Communion arranged through school?
A Catholic school may teach children about the Eucharist and support their preparation. However, First Holy Communion belongs to the sacramental life of the parish and is not simply a school event.
Whether your child attends a Catholic school, another school or is home educated, please speak to Fr Alex or contact the parish office. We will explain how preparation is arranged.
Older children and adults
Preparation can be arranged for older children who have not yet made their First Holy Communion in a way suited to their age and understanding.
Adults who were baptised Catholic but have not received Holy Communion should speak to Fr Alex or contact the parish. Adults considering becoming Catholic normally prepare through the parish’s RCIA programme.