Register for First Holy Communion
What the Church teaches
“The Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life.”
“The holy Eucharist completes Christian initiation.”
Christ is truly, really and substantially present in the Eucharist: his body and blood, together with his soul and divinity.
“Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time.”
Luke 22:19-20 At the Last Supper Jesus takes bread and wine, gives them to the apostles as his body and blood, and tells them to do this in memory of him.
John 6:51 Jesus calls himself the living bread come down from heaven.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 Saint Paul hands on what he received from the Lord about the Eucharist.
Catechism §1324 · Catechism §1322 · Catechism §1374 · Catechism §1457 · Luke 22:19-20 · John 6:51 · 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
What is needed
Children are prepared for First Holy Communion once they have reached the age of reason, usually from about seven years old. The parish sets the class age and the length of preparation.
Requirements
- A baptised Catholic child.
- Attends the First Holy Communion classes and knows the basic prayers.
- Makes a first confession before First Holy Communion.
- Parents or guardians support the preparation and bring the child to Sunday Mass.
Documents to bring
- Baptism certificate, from the parish of Baptism if it was not here.
- Parents' contact details, and proof of parish registration if the parish asks for it.
Preparation classes
Register your child with the parish office or a catechism teacher. You will be told when and where the classes meet.
First Holy Communion 2027
- Under way
- Starts Tue, 25 August 2026
- First Holy Communion: Sat, 15 May 2027
Saturdays at 10 am. Children aged eight and over.
Questions people ask
How old must my child be?
Old enough to understand that the Eucharist is Jesus himself and to receive him with reverence, usually seven or older. The parish class sets the age.
Is first confession part of the preparation?
Yes. Children make their first confession before their First Holy Communion (CCC 1457).
What should my child wear?
The parish will tell you its custom. Many parishes ask for simple white clothes; there is no need for anything costly.
My child was baptised in another parish.
Bring the Baptism certificate from that parish. If your child was baptised in another Christian church, speak to the priest first.
Can an older child or teenager join?
Yes. Older children are prepared too, sometimes in a separate group. Contact the parish office.