First Communion Sunday.  This was a special day for our parish and for seventeen children who received the body and blood of Jesus for the first time.


Before Mass begins, the children practice processing two by two and bowing together to the altar.  We can show our reverence even by the way we walk and hold our hands.


The First Communicants listen carefully to Father Ryan's homily.  He mentions each one by name!


After the homily, Father Ryan lights the children's candles, a reminder of the candle that was lit on the day of their baptism.


Holding their lighted candles, the children renew the promises of their baptism.  They let their "I do"s ring out loud and clear!








At last the moment comes:  receiving the body and blood of Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time.




The children were surprised when Father Ryan and the entire assembly applauded for them on this special day.


The children with their catechists join in the procession.  "The Mass is ended, go in peace, alleluia!"


After Mass, the children and Father Ryan gather for a group picture.


 

After the formal portrait, it's time for the "mamarazzi and paparazzi" to take pictures.