First Reconciliation and First Eucharist

The seven sacraments are central to the life of a Catholic Christian. We believe we experience God’s love and graces in the reception of all the sacraments.  In order to receive the sacraments in St. Catharine parish, families including children must be registered parishioners at St. Catharine's. Children must have received the sacrament of baptism.

Reconciliation/Penance and Eucharist
Children begin their formal preparation for these sacraments in first grade and receive these sacraments in second grade.  In addition to the students attending CCD classes, parents must attend two evening sessions to update their own theology and receive practical information regarding preparation of their children. Parents also receive a Reconciliation and Eucharist book to work on with their children.  To sign up to be a part of the first Sacraments program, please click here for the information form.

Click here for the entire calendar, or refer to the specific dates for First Sacraments below:

• Saturday, January 21, 2017 - First Reconciliation at either 11:00am or 1:30pm in the Church
• Saturday, March 11, 2017 - Eucharistic Experience for last names M-Z (11:00am - 12:30pm)
• Saturday, March 18, 2017 - Eucharistic Experience for last names A-L (1:00pm - 2:30pm)
• Saturday March 18, 2017 at 5:30pm Mass - Rite of Choice for Mrs. Martell, Mrs. Kennedy and Ms. Folco's classes
• Sunday, March 19, 2017 at 10:00am Mass - Rite of Choice for Mrs. Suehr, Mr. Bontekoe, Ms. Lachenauer and Mrs. Scarpeli's classes
• Sunday, March 19, 2017 at 12:00pm Mass - Rite of Choice for Mrs. Yetter, Mrs. DeTuro, Mrs. Ferrante, Mrs. Hallajian and Ms. Renshaw's classes

• Tuesday, February 7, 2017 - Last Names A-L (7:30pm - Community Hall)
• Wednesday, February 8, 2017 - Last Names M-Z (7:30pm - Community Hall)

• Saturday, April 29^th at 11:00 am Liturgy
• Sunday, April 30^th at the parish Noon Liturgy
• Saturday, May 6^th at 11:00 am or 2:00 pm Liturgy
• Sunday, May 7^th at the parish Noon Liturgy

• Week of January 9 - Reconcilation books are due to CCD or Academy of our Lady teachers
• Week of April 3 - Eucharist books are due to CCD or Academy of our Lady teachers

Dress Code
The dress code for First Communion is as follows.  Pleaes note that Communion accessories may be purchased at Sikoras (147 Market Street, Passaic, NJ) or Siccardi's (136 East Ridgewood Avenue, Ridgewood, NJ) or any other religious articles store you may find.

• Girls whould wear white or pastel colored dresses and veils or flowers in their hair.  Color of shoes and socks is optional.  In the past, most of the girls have worn white dresses and veils.  They may also carry flowers if they wish.
• Boys may wear any suit color or sports jacket with slacks.  The color of shoes, shirt and tie is optional.  Traditionally, most boys have worn blue suits.  Boutonnieres may be worn in their lapels.

Rehearsal for First Communion
As First Communion Day approaches teachers will begin to practice with the children how to receive the Host and hold the Chalice. Children will practice with unblessed hosts. Gluten free hosts are available for practice, First Communion and at every mass.   Rehearsal Days are as follows:

First Communion Day
Each family will be assigned one pew which will fit approximately 6-8 people, including the child and parents.  Parents and children should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the beginning of the ceremony.  Additional family and friends may sit in any unreserved pew. Please remind family and friends that photographs are not permitted during the liturgy. There will be ample time afterwards to take pictures.