Looking back

First Communion memories

Many people cherish their memories of First Holy Communion, from the outfit they wore, to the way they felt receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time. We asked parishioners to share their memories of this extraordinary day. Here’s what they said.

Sharon Calvelage St John the Baptist, Glandorf

"I remember the excitement of the day. My main memory is as I walked out of the pew to walk up and receive Holy Communion I looked back at my mom and dad and dad was handing mom his handkerchief because she was shedding tears of joy."

Mary Jo Schroeder St. Mary, Leipsic

"[I remember] the dress my mother made for me (and even though it’s 68 years old, I still have it) and the song we sang, “Oh, Lord, I Am Not Worthy.” I still think of that song and its words every single time I go to Communion."

Bishop Daniel E. Thomas

"The most important day of my life up until this day was not my ordination or the day I was named a bishop, as people often guess. It was the day I received my First Holy Communion. My memories are very vivid. We wore all white, so I wore a white suit and white bucks … but the deeper memories beyond the clothing were the memories of preparing to welcome Jesus into my heart, soul and body."

Kevin Jorrey Pastoral Center, Diocese of Toledo

"Upon receiving the Holy Eucharist at the Easter Vigil when my wife and I became Catholic, I experienced an immense feeling of contentment. I was completely fulfilled and nourished by our blessed Lord who gave Himself completely for me despite my many sins. Glory be to Jesus Christ!"

Anne Brossia, Epiphany of Lord, Toledo

"It was a beautiful, sunny morning ... We had a large class, which included the CCD kids, and everyone looked nice. We had to go back in the afternoon to receive our Blessed Scapulars, and we had the next day off from school. That day is one of my fondest childhood memories."