On Sunday, May 5, twenty-nine children in our parish received Holy Communion for the first time.  Many of them have been preparing for this important day for two years!


There were some jitters and excitement before Mass began.


Taking a moment for prayer.


It's traditional to dress your best for First Holy Communion.  The white dresses worn by the girls recall the white garments they received on the day of their baptism.


Gathering in the vestibule for the procession...






The children joined the solemn entrance procession at the beginning of Mass.




The Mass is full of baptismal reminders. There was the sprinkling rite at the beginning of Mass...


... the lighting of candles,




... and the renewal of baptismal promises.




For the first time, the children receive the body and blood of Christ in the Eucharist.  From now on this sacrament will be their food for the journey.


The procession out at the end of Mass.


Superstars!


Smile, everybody!
Congratulations, First Communicants!