At the Holy Disciples Parish, First Reconciliation and 1st Holy Communion take place in the 3rd grade. It is a very special time for the entire family as the children experience the sacramental gift of the Lord’s
forgiveness and then receive Christ Himself in the Sacrament of the Eucharist.

3rd grade students attend 2 classes per month, because they prepare not for one but for a total of TWO sacraments. The first sacrament that the children prepare for is the sacrament of Reconciliation. This sacrament
usually takes place during the second half of winter. After the children receive the sacrament of Reconciliation, we begin our preparations for 1st Holy Communion.

Prior to 1st Holy Communion, the children (plus one parent/guardian) attend a mandatory retreat that takes place on the Saint John the Evangelist premises. We have fun, learn a little more about our Catholic faith,
review some of the information that the children went through, and enjoy a craft or two that help reflect on the gift of 1st Holy Communion.