Eucharist

Nourished by Christ’s
Body and Blood.

The Eucharist is the Church’s “source and summit,” where Christ’s sacrifice is made present and we receive His true Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine. Instituted at the Last Supper, the Eucharist unites us to the Paschal Mystery, forgives venial sins, and builds up the one Body of Christ in communion. The Church teaches, following the Council of Trent, that by the words of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit the substance of bread and wine is changed (referred to as “transubstantiation”) so that Christ is wholly present, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. As St. Thomas Aquinas sings, “O sacred banquet, in which Christ is received,” and St. Ignatius of Antioch calls it the “medicine of immortality” (O sacrum convivium; Eph. 20:2). Participation in Sunday Mass
and Eucharistic adoration flows from this mystery of love.

At St. Michael’s, preparation for the reception of the Holy Eucharist is offered for children, youth, and adults who desire to receive this sacrament for the first time. Those seeking First Holy Communion must be registered parishioners of
St. Michael’s and participate in the required preparation program prior to receiving the sacrament. Preparation includes catechesis, prayer, participation in the Mass, and instruction on the meaning and reverence of the Eucharist, helping candidates understand the Real Presence of Christ and the central role of the Eucharist in the life of the Church.

Parents play an essential role in preparing their children for First Holy Communion by fostering faith at home and participating in the formation process. Catechists and parish leaders assist families by providing guidance and instruction rooted in the teachings of the Church.

First Holy Communion is celebrated at scheduled times determined by the parish and in accordance with diocesan guidelines. Specific dates, preparation requirements, and program details are communicated during the formation process.

To begin the First Holy Communion process or to
learn more about Eucharistic preparation, please contact
Sr. Rose Paul srrosepaul@stmichaelscatholic.com.

St. Michael’s Parish is honored to accompany candidates and their families as they prepare to receive Christ in this most holy sacrament.