First Reconciliation Program

First Reconciliation Sacramental Guidelines

First Reconciliation will be celebrated in the second grade. Archbishop Dolan has requested that all parishes be in complete compliance with the precept of the Church that catechesis for and celebration of the sacrament of Reconciliation precede the reception of First Holy Communion. Previous to 2004-05, First Reconciliation was received in fifth grade. Therefore, fifth-graders who have not celebrated their First Reconciliation will also prepare for and receive this sacrament for the first time.

Preparation for the sacrament of Reconciliation has four components: 1) parent sessions; 2) classroom instruction, either in Lumen Christi Catholic School or Catholic Formation classes; 3) family workbook sessions; and 4) parish-wide student enrichment sessions.

During the parent sessions, parents will register their children for the sacrament of Reconciliation. The majority of this session will be devoted to adult formation. As parents grow in their faith, they will be better prepared to educate their children. In addition, the First Reconciliation workbook will be reviewed. The greatest part of preparation will be completed at home using the workbook as a guide. Completing the workbook together as a family helps students and parents gain a deeper understanding of this sacrament of forgiveness.

The student enrichment sessions will allow the children to enhance their sacrament preparation by participating in hands-on activities. Children will visit the Reconciliation Rooms and gain a better appreciation for this sacrament. The student sessions bring all of our parish children together so they have the opportunity to interact with one another on at least one occasion prior to celebrating the sacrament.

God Bless,

Joan Kress
Associate Director for Child Ministry