First Communion

First Communion 2023

Registration Form for First Communion (Spring 2023) 
Note: If your child is not in Catholic School, please compete the Registration Form for Sunday Morning Faith Formation also.

More information about the parent meeting and other important dates coming soon! 

Preparing for First Communion in the Diocese of Memphis is a two year process.

• Usually children prepare for First Communion during 1st and 2nd grades, and receive their First Communion during the spring of 2nd grade.
• Children in Catholic Schools attend sacramental preparation sessions at St. Peter during their 2nd grade year.
• Children in Public or Private Schools attend Catechesis of the Good Shepherd atrium sessions on Sunday mornings during 1st and 2nd grades, in addition to the sacramental preparation sessions during their 2nd grade year.

A few other guidelines:

• Children preparing for First Communion are expected to attend Mass regularly on Sundays and Holy Days.
• Family prayer and scripture reading is an essential part of the sacramental preparation process. It is important for children to learn their basic prayers and be reading (or listening to) the Bible at home.
• During the year of First Communion, parents attend sessions offered specifically for them during this process.
• Children in Catholic Schools and those in Parish Religious Education attend the sacramental preparation sessions and retreats together.
• Although most children receive First Communion in 2nd grade, it is not uncommon for older children to receive their First Communion also. The specific age/grade is not as important as the child’s desire and eagerness to receive the sacrament. Families are encouraged to pray and discern with their child to help him/her know when he is ready to begin formal preparation for the sacrament. Note: Younger children who are not yet in 2nd grade will need the approval of the pastor to receive First Communion.
• Catechesis is not just learning facts about the sacraments (or the church). Catechesis nurtures and deepens our relationship with God.

Catechesis does not end with First Communion. Catechesis is a lifelong journey!