Sacrament of First Communion & Reconciliation
Traditionally St. Alphonsus Parish children in the second grade prepare for the Sacrament of First Communion. The Diocese of Grand Rapids has instituted a new policy for the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Beginning this year, second grade students will receive the Sacrament of First Communion and Reconciliation.
A year of catechism before these sacraments (i.e. first grade religion class or Good Shepherd program) is part of the preparation. Our calendar of special preparation sessions is noted below. The first session on October 10 will be very informative for parents. We will discuss the Sacraments, our materials and the plans for the other dates.
During the year your child's teacher or catechist is also preparing your child for First Communion and Reconciliation. Most of the "book learning" will happen during their school religion classes or G.I.F.T. classes. In addition, you will receive the "MagnifiKid!" a missalette written for children.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated on Monday April 21, 2008, in the Church. The Sacrament of First Communion will be celebrated on Sunday May 4, 2008, at the 11:00 a.m. Mass.
First Communion & Reconciliation Preparation Calendar (2nd grade)
| Wednesday 10/10/07 | Parent Preparation/Support Meeting at 6:00 p.m. in Room 314 |
| Sunday 10/14/07 | Parish Blessing of children during 11:00 a.m. Mass in Church |
| Wednesday 3/05/08 | Memorial Plate at 6:00 p.m. in the St. Al's Gym/Cafe for Parent and child |
| Thursday 4/17/08 | Retreat from 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. in Room 314 (child only) |
| Monday 4/21/08 | Sacrament of Reconciliation at 7:00 p.m. in the Church |
| Sunday 5/04/08 | First Communion Mass at 11:00 a.m. |