Next Saturday, many of the children in our faith community will make their First Holy Communion at Saint Brigid. They will share with us in the fullness of the Lord’s Supper for the first time, and they are excited. Many of their parents and other loved ones will watch proudly as these children, with great devotion, take this important step on their journey of faith. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the Latin Rite of the Catholic Church “…reserves admission to Holy Communion to those who have attained the age of reason”, which is traditionally considered to be the age of seven.
Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, in a homily, addressed a group of children receiving their First Holy Communion. He stated, “Making your first Holy Communion shows that you want to be closer to Jesus every day, to grow in friendship with him and to lead other people to share in the joy he wants us to feel. The Lord needs you because he wants to work the miracle of bringing his joy to many of your friends and family members.” Pope Francis further stated, “I am happy to share this great moment with you and to help you meet Jesus.”
As we reflect on these words of Pope Francis, and as we celebrate the First Holy Communion of our children at Saint Brigid, we are reminded that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith. We are invited to bond with each other by nourishing together on the Bread of Life in the Eucharist, and then by going forth in loving service of our brothers and sisters, especially our brothers and sisters in need.
This following prayer expresses our thanks for the great gift of Holy Communion from the perspective of a child.
As we take this prayer to heart, we are reminded that the word “Eucharist” means “giving thanks.” And on the very special day of First Holy Communion, we can once again thank the Lord for the great gift of the Eucharist. We can also thank the Lord for our wonderful children, and for our vibrant faith community of Saint Brigid.
Dear Jesus,
Thank You for my Holy Communion.
Through the Mass You come to us as You came on the first Christmas.
In the Mass You repeat the wonderful Sacrifice of Calvary.
During the Mass You give Yourself to me in Holy Communion.
Dear Jesus, help me love Holy Communion.
Make me thoughtful and prayerful at Mass.
Come to me and remain with me all the days of my life. Amen
