Holy Eucharist

WHAT IS EUCHARIST?
Eucharist, the Bread of Life, is that which sustains us on our journey of faith. The Eucharist was instituted by Christ at the Last Supper, Eucharist (Communion) takes place in Church at Mass.

POLICY (DIOCESAN)
Parishes shall have a catechesis for each of the sacraments which prepares people to fully and actively participate in the sacramental life of the Church and to celebrate the reality of GodŐs abiding presence at special moments throughout their lives. Catechesis for every sacrament must be directed to the entire faith community while also focusing on those preparing to celebrate the sacrament. The Bishop, who holds the primary position of authority, has the responsibility over programs of catechesis. He issues specific guidelines regarding the sacraments, which must be followed through the Office of Liturgy and Worship.

REQUIREMENTS FOR RECEIVING FIRST EUCHARIST
Requirements for receiving First Eucharist

1. Catechesis for Eucharist should stress its intimate relationship to Baptism and Confirmation and that in Eucharist, Christians are fully joined to the Body of Christ.
2. Catechesis should stress that the Eucharist, this Holy Sacrifice, is both a memorial of the LordŐs passion, death and Resurrection and a celebration of it here and now.
3. Eucharist should transform us in the ongoing process of conversion towards greater love of God and neighbor.
4. Catechesis should consider the historical development of this sacraments, the meaning of the bread and wine and its reality as the LordŐs Body and Blood.
5. Catechesis should instruct people regarding the obligations of this sacraments.
6. Eucharist catechesis should give instruction about meaning, ritual, symbols and parts of the Mass.
7. As for children, catechesis seeks to strengthen their awareness of the FatherŐs love, and the idea of Real Presence.
8. Parents, Pastors and catechists are responsible for determining when children are ready to receive First Communion. Parents should be involved in preparing their child for First Communion.
9. Catechesis for First Communion is separate from catechesis for Reconciliation.

CONTACT
Dan McGowan
Office of Religious Education 863-644-0585