Celebrating First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion

Children of St. Bernadette Parish receive the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in their second grade school year. First Holy Communion is celebrated within the life of our parish community, recognizing that the Eucharist is not only a personal encounter with Jesus, but also a celebration of our unity as the Body of Christ.

Children are prepared for First Reconciliation within our St. Bernadette School and PSR programs.

God's Gift is our First Holy Communion preparation program for children and their families. In addition to their regular faith formation through St. Bernadette Parish School of Religion (PSR) or Catholic school, children and their families participate in dedicated sacramental preparation experiences, including parent and child sessions and Jesus Day, a first communion retreat.

Through these experiences, children will grow in their understanding of God's love, the beauty of the Mass, God's endless mercy, and the gift of Jesus truly present in the Eucharist. Together as a parish family, we accompany our children as they take this important step in their lifelong journey of faith and discipleship.

Children should be baptized and registered parishioners of St. Bernadette Parish. If your child is not baptized, please contact Fr. Joe Menkhaus for next steps.

Children should have completed a first grade religious education program either through PSR or a Catholic school per Diocesan standards. If your child did not attend PSR or a Catholic school in first grade, please contact Mrs. Hajduk.

If your child is older than second grade and you are seeking to prepare them for First Holy Communion, please contact Mrs. Hajduk.

Registration for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion is through our program, God's Gift.