The Eucharist in the Life of the Community
The Eucharist is at the center of our faith as Catholics and is celebrated at every Mass. In this sacrament, we receive the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Our Lord Jesus Christ under the appearance of ordinary bread and wine. Christ unites Himself intimately to those who receive the Eucharist, entering our hearts and transforming willing souls into His faithful followers.
Preparation for Children
A child in the process of Christian initiation is led gradually, according to personal capacity, to full participation in the Eucharist. This continuing formation takes place in the midst of the family and parish communities. Children need to be at least 7 years of age and in the second grade by the time classes begin in August/September to be able to receive this sacrament. Because this preparation is an ongoing process, it is mandatory that children regularly attend the classes of formation during the year.
Families are always encouraged to participate in St. Jude’s religious education program, and parental involvement is necessary. St. Jude’s provides preparation sessions for parents and children who are ready to celebrate this sacrament within our Parish Religious Education program (PRE). Readiness for this sacrament involves a child desiring to receive Communion, regularly participating in the worship life of the parish, and being involved in ongoing faith formation either in PRE or in a Catholic school. Materials and sessions are age appropriate and also play an important role in assisting parents who are working at home with a child preparing for the sacrament.
For more information, please contact Paula Price, PRE Coordinator, at (501) 982-4891.