The sacraments of first reconciliation and first holy communion are cause for great celebration. We are excited to accompany your family as your child continues their journey of faith. Children start the preparation to receive these sacraments when they are in 1st grade, with reception of the sacrament in 2nd grade. It is a joyful time for these children and their families as they prepare to receive forgiveness from God and Jesus Christ, body, blood, soul and divinity, for the very first time.
You Are Your Child’s First and Most Important Teacher of Faith As a parent, you are the first and most powerful witness of faith to your child. Your words, actions, and the way you live your faith every day shape how your child learns to love, trust, and relate to God. Modeling an openness to God’s unconditional love is one of the greatest gifts you can offer your child—and it’s at the heart of preparing them to receive the sacraments.
Sacramental Preparation Focus: First Grade Signs of Grace – You Are Forgiven Our 1st graders will explore the Sacrament of Reconciliation and God’s gift of mercy and forgiveness. This year lays a strong foundation, not just for your child, but for your whole family to grow in appreciation of this powerful sacrament. Key Themes:
God’s Love and Mercy -- God created us out of love and wants a relationship with us. Even when we sin, God’s mercy is always greater.
Understanding Sin -- Introduction to original and personal sin. Learning the difference between mortal and venial sins.
Jesus Establishes the Sacrament -- Jesus gave us Reconciliation through His apostles. Priests act in persona Christi—in the person of Christ.
Parts of the Sacrament -- The four essential elements: Contrition, Confession, Penance, and Absolution. How to prepare with a good examination of conscience.
Making a Good Confession -- A gentle, step-by-step guide to the Rite of Reconciliation. Helping children approach the sacrament without fear.
God’s Forgiveness Changes Us -- Confession brings healing and helps us become more like Jesus. Grace helps us resist sin and grow in virtue.
Living the Grace -- Encouragement to receive the sacrament regularly. Living daily with prayer, virtue, and God’s love.
Sacramental Preparation Focus: Second Grade Signs of Grace – You Are Forgiven and You Are Loved Our 2nd graders will continue building on what they’ve learned and preparing for First Reconciliation and then move into preparation for First Holy Communion. This year is a beautiful time of spiritual growth and joyful anticipation as children come to know how deeply God loves them and desires to be close to them in the Eucharist. Key Themes:
God Created Us Out of Love -- Every child is uniquely made and loved by God.
Jesus Is the Bread of Life -- Introduction to Jesus’ Real Presence in the Eucharist.
The Last Supper and the Institution of the Eucharist -- Understanding how Jesus gave us the Mass to remain close to Him.
Understanding the Mass -- Exploring the Mass as both celebration and sacrifice.
Receiving Jesus in Holy Communion -- How to receive with reverence, love, and a heart prepared by prayer.
Jesus Is with Us Always -- The Eucharist strengthens our relationship with God and others.
Living as a Disciple of Jesus -- After Communion, we’re called to share Christ’s love and serve others.
Celebrating First Communion -- A time of joyful preparation, celebration, and thanksgiving!
We look forward to growing in faith together and walking alongside your family in this very special year. May this journey help you and your child come to know the love and grace of God more deeply than ever before.
If you have any questions or need support along the way, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
Requirements for First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion
Enrollment & Participation in Family Faith Formation
Complete 1st Grade Class
Complete 2nd Grade Class
Complete 2 Retreats
Attend Sacramental Prep Classes
Ability recite Our Father, Hail Mary, and the Act of Contrition (at scheduled time)
Attend weekly Mass with parent(s)
Schedule Classes
Second Sunday of each month 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St. Ignatius, Mount Horeb
Parent Classes
Sunday, October 12, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St. Ignatius, Mount Horeb (1st & 2nd Grade Parents)
Sunday, November 8, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St Ignatius, Mount Horeb (1st & 2nd Grade Parents)
Sunday, January 11, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St Ignatius, Mount Horeb (1st & 2nd Grade Parents)
Sunday, February 8, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St Ignatius, Mount Horeb (2nd Grade Parents-ONLY)
Sunday, March 8, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St Ignatius, Mount Horeb (2nd Grade Parents-ONLY)
Sunday, April 12, 9:00 am - 10:15 am @ St Ignatius, Mount Horeb (2nd Grade Parents-ONLY)
Retreats -- All retreats are mandatory
Monday, November 10, 6:15 pm @ Immaculate Conception, Barneveld
Monday, March 23, 6:15 pm @ St. Ignatius, Mount Horeb
Important Dates
First Reconciliation
Saturday, January 31, 9:00 am @ St. Ignatius, Mount Horeb
First Holy Communion Prep
St Ignatius - TBD
Immaculate Conception - TBD
St Patrick - TBD
First Holy Communion
Sunday, May 3 - St Ignatius, Mount Horeb
Sunday, May 10 - Immaculate Conception, Barneveld
Sunday, May 17 - St Patrick, Hollandale
Corpus Christi
Sunday, June 7, 8:00 am @ Holy Redeemer, Perry
If you have any questions please contact Angie Sailing.