First Communion

As they were eating, Jesus took bread and asked God’s blessing on it, and broke it in pieces and gave it to them and said, “Eat it – this is my body.” Then he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it and gave it to them; and they all drank from it. And he said to them, “This is my blood, poured out for many, sealing the new agreement between God and man.” ( Mark 14: 23-24)
Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. (John 6:54)

The Sacrament of the Eucharist comes from the Greek word, eucharia, which means “thanksgiving.” At every Mass, Catholics join in a liturgical celebration of Christ’s Last Supper with his disciples. At that meal, Jesus took bread and wine, gave thanks to his heavenly father, and offered to those gathered and to all succeeding generations these sacramental forms of his body and blood. As described in the documents of the Second Vatican Council, the liturgy of the Mass is both the source and the summit of our Christian life (Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, 10).

By virtue of their baptism, all practicing Catholics are called to the table of the Lord, to receive the Eucharist, or holy communion (the consecrated bread and wine) at Mass. They are encouraged to receive communion frequently, for Jesus, truly present in the Eucharist, is our Bread of Life, our nourishment for this journey on earth.

First Holy Communion for Children Ages 6-8

The children of Our Lady of Refuge, ordinarily ages 6-8, prepare for their First Holy Communion by means of a two year process. There is an opportunity for them to prepare now. For more information please see the Religious Education Sacrament Preparation Page.

First Holy Communion for Older Children

Sometimes older children, for one reason or another, did not receive their First Communion. There is opportunity is open for them to receive it now. Please call the Office of Religious Education (562) 597-3102. For more information please see the Religious Education Sacrament Preparation Page.

First Holy Communion for Adults

Also, there are adults who have not received their First Communion. There is opportunity for them to do so now. For more information please see the RCIA Page.