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First Holy Communion Students Draw Closer to Jesus in Receiving Sacrament
As adults, we might be tempted at times to take for granted the joy of receiving Holy Communion. When we partake of the Body and Blood of Christ, we are brought near to the Lord in a unique and glorious way. Imagine, then, the excitement our second-grade students have been experiencing as they prepared for their First Holy Communion through the guidance of their parents and their teachers.
Our First Holy Communion will be at 1 p.m. on May 2. The children have been spiritually prepared by learning prayers, understanding God’s goodness and mercy, and celebrating their First Confession.
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“Our second-grade teachers prepare the students for First Holy Communion as part of their regular religion class,” Fr. Godfrey says. “Usually, there is a retreat for the students, where they engage in activities, talks, and ‘tasting’ of unconsecrated hosts.”
Although the children have been engaged with their teachers in preparing for their First Holy Communion, Fr. Godfrey can celebrate a broader view of the children’s faith journey.
“As a pastor, I find great joy in celebrating the Baptism of infants,” he says. “The Church rejoices at the forgiveness of original sin and the incorporation of the infant into the household of Christ. In that sacrament, I say to the parents, ‘You are undertaking the responsibility of raising him/ her in the faith.’ When a child comes for First Holy Communion, I know that the parents are making good on this promise. Raising children in the faith is so important for the parents’ fundamental role — helping their children toward heaven.”
Fr. Godfrey posed two questions to the children making their First Holy Communion. They were asked, “What do you most look forward to on the day of your First Holy Communion?” The second question was “What do you think Jesus might help you do once you receive your First Holy Communion?”
“The joy of the 7 or 8-year-olds receiving Holy Communion is beautiful and a reminder to all of us of the joy we should rightly encounter when we draw near to the Lord and He draws near to us,” Fr. Godfrey says.
A sampling of their answers follows:
“I am excited to experience what it is like to go up and have the opportunity to be with God,” Lainey says. “After my First Communion, I think God will help me talk to Him more through prayer.”
“I am excited to be a good follower of Jesus,” Ashley says. “After my First Communion, I think God will help me make better decisions.”
“I am excited to receive the Body and Blood of Christ and to come closer in His friendship,” Kenna says. “After my First Communion, I think God will help me to please Him and not to go away from Him in sin.”
“I look forward to receiving the Body of Christ,” Juliann says. “I think Jesus will help me to be the best version of myself.”
“I am excited to grow as a Catholic,” Mason says. “After my First Communion, I think God will help me understand and to listen to God.”
