First Holy Communion
When children have already begun their spiritual journey, with the help of their parents, many look forward to receiving Holy Communion for the first time, a sacred moment in the life of a young Catholic. Baptized Catholics reaching the age of seven are also ready to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation for the first time as well. As children prepare for Holy Communion, they are given the opportunity to go to confession. Our First Reconciliation – First Holy Communion Preparation Program is meant to strengthen the faith and relationship of children and their parents as they prepare and discuss their faith throughout the program.
For children in grades 2-4, preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation and Holy Communion takes place at the parish, with support from our parish schools.
For 2024-2025 the First Reconciliation and First Communion Preparation Program will be offered in two semesters of 8-week sessions:
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Semester One – October-December 2024 – St. James CES & St. Teresa of Calcutta CES
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Semester Two – January-March 2025 – St. Bernadette CES
Children not enrolled at one of these schools (e.g.: public school, homeschool, etc.) may register for either semester.
Each semester will have the option of regularly attending either a Wednesday evening (6-7pm) or Saturday morning (11am-12pm) class.
Parents must attend one of the mandatory Parent Information and Registration sessions which will be held on:
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Thursday September 26th at 6pm
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Saturday September 28th at 10am
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To register your child for First Reconciliation and First Communion please bring the following to the Parent Information Session:
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Completed registration form - Click link for registration form
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Original (parish seal visible) and copy of your child’s baptismal certificate
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$50 registration fee (cash or cheque payable to St. Bernadette Parish)
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For further information, please contact Robert LeBlanc, Lay Pastoral Associate, at lpa@stbernajax.com or call the parish office at 905-683-1533 x 203.
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Please note that the registration deadline to receive these sacraments in the 2024-2025 year is Nov. 1, 2024.
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