Lifelong Faith Formation

Receiving Communion

• Approach the Priest or Eucharist Minister, bow before the host.  The Priest or Eucharist Minister will say, "The Body of Christ." You say, "Amen."  Place your writing hand underneath your other hand, accept the host, step to the side and place the host on your tongue.

• In receiving from the chalice, approach the Priest or Eucharist Minister, bow before the chalice. The Priest or Eucharist Minister will say, "The Blood of Christ." You say, "Amen."

• Return to your pew and sit. There is no standing or kneeling. Sitting is also a prayerful posture. As a sign of our joy and unity, sing throughout the reception of Communion. After all have received, there will be a period of silence for private thanksgiving.

For those who are physically unable to kneel or stand, sitting is always appropriate. These procedures may vary a bit from parish to parish. Follow the local custom.

First Communion Parent Prayer

Lord, give us the wisdom and the courage to help our children as you would … 
to develop in them a Christ-like love for all people … 
to nurture in them a desire to give and not simply to take … 
to teach them to be doers of Your Holy Word. 

Guide us in our parental responsibilities;
strengthen our love as a family
so that we may work together in coming closer to You.

May we be the expression of Your love to our children
so that each day will be as today … 
Your love received and shared … 
to help us be one in the Body of Christ. 

Amen.