FIRST COMMUNION – THE SECOND SACRAMENT OF INITIATION
FIRST COMMUNION VIA FAITH FORMATION
In Holy Communion, your child takes their second step, after Baptism, into full initiation into the Church. They receive the bread and wine at Mass and fully participate at the Table of the Lord.
Is your child ready to join in Holy Communion? At St. Patrick’s First Communion preparation generally occurs during second grade, although sometimes it is earlier and sometimes it is later. Children should be age 7 or older to prepare for the sacrament. The Parents and Pastor discern jointly if their child is fully ready following an interview during the preparation year. Preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Communion ordinarily include at least two years of classroom based religious education.
Registration is in August and September. During the preparation for Sacraments, parents and children often study together. The sacramental programs for both First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion are six to eight weeks long with a family retreat as part of the preparation process. All children preparing for the reception of the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion should first complete a year of Faith Formation classes.
If you wonder if this might be the year for your child, or have any questions about the program, please call. For more information you may contact our Pastor or Director of Faith Formation and Religious Education. We look forward to working with you and your child!
CHRISTIAN FAMILY STUDIES
Sometimes, for any number of reasons, one, two, or even all the children in a family may not have received their Sacraments at the same time as their peers. We welcome those parents and families who decide to bring their children to the church to participate in the Sacraments given to us by Jesus Christ. We gather the families together and address each of the needs presented. We assist in preparing the family for any or all of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation. Please contact the Faith Formation director for specific information.
RCIA – RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS
RCIA is an adult and family process of preparation for reception of the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist). RCIA meets on Sunday mornings and/or several afternoons during the month. The RCIA process is flexible and tailored to the needs of candidates who proceed through the process at their own pace. Generally, a new class begins each September, however, many factors may require adjustment of the schedule so we welcome your inquiries at any time of the year. Adults who wish to enter the Church and children age seven or above in need of Baptism should contact our Pastor Fr. Sal Stefula, T.O.R. at 813-839-5337 Ext. 115 or sstefula@stpatricktampa.org to learn more.