The Sacrament of First Holy Communion (Eucharist)

I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live for ever."
John 6:51

The Sacrament of the Eucharist, known as First Holy Communion, is the third Sacrament that Catholics receive. It is a deeply special and memorable Sacrament, as we receive the Body and Blood of Christ and Jesus becomes a part of us. It is also a gift we receive each week at Mass, as we remember the sacrifice Jesus made for us through his death and resurrection.

In Year 3, our children prepare for the Sacrament of First Holy Communion. They are guided on their faith journey, showing reverence as they deepen their faith in the Lord Jesus.

As part of their preparation programme:

• In-school sessions – in school, our Year 3 pupils take part in a series of First Holy Communion sessions using the Archdiocese of Birmingham's teaching resources. These help the children to understand the gift of the Eucharist, the meaning of the Mass, and how Jesus is truly present in the Body and Blood of Christ.
• Family Masses – children and their families are warmly welcomed to a series of Family Masses on Saturday evenings at 4.00pm at St Dunstan's. Following Mass, there are preparation sessions with parishioners and Father John, helping the children and their families to grow in their understanding of the Mass and the gift of the Eucharist.
• Retreat Day – our Year 3 pupils take part in a special Retreat Day. The children explore their own faith and reflect on how their journey with Christ began when they were sent from God to their parents as babies. They learn that our journey with God never ends, and that we simply keep growing closer to Him. The children gather in prayer to remember the Lord's most precious gift, the Body and Blood of Christ. They listen to the Gospel of the Last Supper and re-enact it, imagining they are one of the Disciples, and create beautiful pieces of art to remember the most important gift they will receive, the Body of Christ. The children enjoy the day immensely, and it strengthens their friendships with each other and with God.
• Celebrating the Sacrament – the children receive their First Holy Communion at St Dunstan's Church, surrounded by their families and parish community.

We are so proud of our Year 3 children as they receive Jesus for the first time and grow ever closer to Him.