The sacrament of Holy Communion or the Eucharist is one of the three sacraments of initiation (the others being Baptism and Confirmation). While the other two Sacraments confirm our membership of the Catholic Church, Holy Communion nourishes us in our spiritual life.

In this sacrament, we remember what Jesus did for us in his life, death and resurrection. We remember particularly the last Supper when Jesus transformed the bread and wine into his own precious body and blood. It was on this night that the Sacrament was instituted.

The Sacrament of First Holy Communion

In the sacrament of First Holy Communion candidates receive the Body of Christ for the first time. It is the practice of the Archdiocese of Sydney that children receive their First Holy Communion in Year 3 or above. Candidates must be baptised and have received the sacrament of Reconciliation.

The Parish Based Program at Holy Innocents’

“For the administration of the Most Holy Eucharist to children, it is required that they have a sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so as to understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity and can receive the Body of the Lord with faith and devotion” (Canon law 913)

Children from a variety of schools come together to learn and celebrate as a united Parish community. We follow the Sydney Archdiocese preparation program. Children and at least one parent must attend group preparation sessions. In these sessions, the children, with the support of their parents will be given thorough catechesis on the meaning of sacrament. Content is reinforced by the teachers and catechists in our schools. The children must also attend a commitment Mass, a reflection afternoon and rehearsals.

2023 Sacramental Program

In 2023 we are running a combine, year-long program for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion.

Our First Holy Communions unit for this year will commence in October (Term 4) with the Parent information evening on 10/10/2023. The Sacrament will be administered on Sunday 26/11/2023 at 11.30am.

In order to proceed with our program, your child must be in Year 3 or higher. If your child is currently in year 2, please refer back to this page in February 2024 for relevant information.

Enrollments for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion are closed for 2023, please refer back to this page in February 2024.

For any further information, please email Suzanne at [email protected]

Registration

If you have already completed the First Reconciliation Program in 2023, there is no need to re-register. If your child has completed First Reconciliation in another year or at another Parish, please contact Suzanne Miceli for First Holy Communion Enrollment information. [email protected]

First Holy Communion 2023 Dates

First Holy Communion for Adults

Adults, who wish to receive this sacrament, please contact the parish office for details.