First Communion

Over three weekends we are celebrating the First Communion, or First Eucharist of 75 children from our parish.

More so than ever before, these have been really beautiful celebrations so far. It feels like it's been more about the Eucharist than about the "First". We have intentionally spread the families across 6 Sunday Masses so that there are 12-15 children and their families at a time, the church is not overcrowded, and the the children are receiving communion as part of the community they are, or could be with every Sunday.

Everyone has seemed more settled and focused than has sometimes been the case. There are less over-the-top dresses, veils and tuxedos, and more children who are nicely dressed but also age appropriate. I haven't needed to tell people not to take photos. I've preached an intentionally accessible homily, knowing that for many of the parents they haven't really done the journey to know and meet Jesus Christ, though through the sacramental program and particularly the great work of Mayo Tripolone many of them are open to it.

It's been good so far. The proof though will be in the effect this has on our families in the longer term. Pray with me for them.

Comments

  1. Dominic19 September 2016 at 01:26

    Fantastic Jim, we had ours too. It's certainly better when there is accommodation paid to the extras that attend these events. Makes it a great family celebration, as well as a parish enrichment time.

    ReplyDelete

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