Each fall children in grade 2 and above begin preparing to receive the sacraments of first reconciliation and first communion. Our program is family and parish based and is complimented by the teaching the children receive in our catholic schools. The sacramental preparation program begins with parent information meetings in October. At the Rite of Welcoming, in early November, the children officially begin their preparation.

Fr. Brian and the Sacramental Preparation Committee members work together with grade 2 teachers at St. Mary School to support the children in their faith journey. Each fall, grade two students and teachers from Saint Mary's have a class trip to OLV and Fr. Brian teaches them about the things you see in a catholic church and their significance. The program is made up of several components: attendance at Mass, completing Mass activity sheets, and workbooks which provide teaching about each sacrament.

First Reconciliation is held in late winter and First Communion is held at selected regular Sunday Masses during the Easter season.

First Reconciliation and First Communion 2011/2012

• Eligible age: children in Grade 2 and above.
• Parent meetings at OLV:
  • Wednesday, October 19, 7:00 pm
  • Sunday, October 23, 12:30 pm
• Rite of Welcoming: Early November TBA. Families are requested to attend so that the children can be welcomed into the program and receive their program workbooks.
• FIRST RECONCILIATION SERVICE will be held at OLV Church in late winter/early spring 2012; Date TBA
• FIRST COMMUNION celebrations will be held during regular Sunday Masses (by reservation only) during the 2012 Easter season.

• Eligible ages: Children in Grade 6 and above
• Children will register and complete parish confirmation program
• Confirmation is celebrated by Archbishop Prendergast during the Easter season 2012 (date will be set by the Archdiocese).