First Penance

First Penance is celebrated usually in the second grade. This sacrament precedes receiving Holy Communion for the first time. (CCC 1457; NDC 36, B2; Canon 914). The Religious Education & Youth Faith Formation department coordinates the preparation and celebration of this sacrament for children both in the day school and the RE programs. The sacrament is celebrated as a parish community.

To receive this sacrament the child needs to have attained the age of discretion, which is usually around the age of seven or above; be baptized; be Catholic; be able to recognize the difference between right and wrong; and have the capacity for sincere sorrow.
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A child is ready to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation when he/she is:

1. Aware that God loves unconditionally;
2. Understands that Jesus died for our sins;
3. Recognizes good and evil, or the capacity for both, and the importance of right choices;
4. And understands how to express sorrow for sins and the ability to offer forgiveness to others.

The preparation program includes activities that are completed at home and in the formal education setting of SIJ – School or Religious Education program. Preparation for this sacrament is done usually during the fall months and the reception of the sacrament is usually before Christmas.

If your child is in a grade other than second, please contact the Director of Religious Education & Youth Faith Formation for more information.