I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger; and whoever believes in me will never thirst. (John 6:35)

Mission Statement

Elementary First Eucharist ministry provides assistance to parents in the instruction of their children on the mystery of Jesus' sacrifice and supper made present on the altar in the memorial of the Mass, prepares the children to hear the Word of God proclaimed, and properly and reverently receive with thanksgiving the gift of Jesus' Body and Blood in Holy Communion, and encourages families to grow closer to the Lord through an ever fuller, more conscious and active participation in the Mass to go forth to love and serve one another.

Ministry Description

Volunteers should have a desire to teach children about the importance of gathering together on the Lord's Day the different parts of the Mass, the Last Supper and Jesus' real presence in the Eucharist, and how to properly receive Holy Communion. Volunteers are to have a commitment to the church's liturgical and sacramental life, be obedient to her moral teachings; and be confirmed in the Catholic faith. Effective teaching techniques and strategies are beneficial, as well as having a basic understanding of Catholic teaching, Scripture, and Tradition. All volunteers must 1) complete a three-hour VIRTUS "Protecting God's Children" training, 2) pass a criminal background check before beginning and 3) attend a one-hour training in September.

Activities

1. Learn about the Last Supper and of Jesus' command to "Do this in Memory of Me."
2. Discover the parts of the Mass and why they are important.
3. Memorize the Apostle's Creed.
4. Learn and practice how to receive Jesus in Holy Communion.

Events

• Sacrament orientation in late January.
• Four instructional classes on site, which may include a Church Tour.
• Four instructional classes at home.
• One Saturday morning Eucharist retreat.
• One scheduled readiness interview prior to the sacrament.

Volunteer/Service Opportunities

Volunteers with children teach four classroom lessons (see meeting times), participate as a center leader in the half-day Eucharist retreat, interview children at the readiness interviews and assist with the First Eucharist Mass. There are a wide variety of opportunities to volunteer with adults, such as communicating with parents, assisting with the parent orientation, helping with set up or clean up, leading large or small group discussions and teaching adult catechesis (with approval from the Archdiocese).

*Note: Depending on Holy Days and holidays, the celebration of First Holy Communion may extend to May.