Dear Parents of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation Candidates

February 3, 2021

Dear Parents of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation,

Due to the present situation of Covid19, it is difficult for the Church to plan any events until the present restrictions are relaxed. I can, however, begin registration and preparation for the reception of these Sacraments.

Sacraments are sacred signs, instituted by Christ which effect Grace. In the prayer of salutation (greeting) to the Blessed Mother, we pray: Hail Mary full of Grace… To persevere in faith, we need the Grace of the Sacraments. The Church understands that Sacraments are encounters with Jesus and His Church, the head, and the body. The celebration of a Sacrament presupposes an esteem for these encounters and a habit of practising the faith. Baptism can be administered once, however living your Baptism is a lifetime event. First Holy Communion is meant to prepare a person for many Communions, not just a “first Communion”, Confirmation is the Sacrament that strengthens the person to live the Catholic faith; the strength of the Sacrament comes from regular reception of Holy Communion preceded by an honest and fruitful reception of the confession of our sins.

I really hope that you do present your child for the reception of the Sacraments. I can sincerely say that I love your children. I see them at school, in the playground and interacting with one another. There is a beauty in each of them, they love to play (I do too), laugh and have fun. If I enjoy them, I believe that God enjoys them abundantly more.

Children learn from example; it is the example of the parents that is necessary here. I would say that parents need to have a conversation with one another before you enroll your child. The conversation should be about the regular practise of the faith. If you do not foresee a change from not practising to practising, in charity, I would suggest that you wait.

All families that are Catholic (at least one spouse must be Catholic) may enroll their child. If you are doubtful about preparing your child, perhaps meeting with me one on one will help. You can phone Tricia at the office, M-F, 9-12 noon to set up an appointment. Do not be shy, if you do not know what to do or how to do it, ask me for help. I am here as the pastor to help you; I must help you.

After receiving from you a completed form, I will organize a zoom meeting for all families who would like to have their child receive the Sacraments.

Fr. Terry