Welcome to St. Mary's of the Lake

Eucharist

Eucharist

The Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. It is both the high point of our week—where we bring all we are before God—and the wellspring from which we draw strength for the days ahead. Just as regular exercise nourishes the body, regular participation in the Eucharist nourishes the soul. By deepening our understanding of the Mass and the Real Presence of Christ, we become more active participants in worship and more faithful disciples in the world.

First Communion

The celebration of First Communion marks a sacred milestone in a child’s journey of faith. By coming to the Lord’s Table to receive the Body and Blood of Christ for the first time, children begin to share fully in the life of the Church. It is a moment of great joy for our entire parish family—because we are not complete without every one of our members, including our youngest.

Preparation and Celebration

Registration for First Communion takes place at an information meeting in the spring, prior to the start of the program year. Preparation begins in the winter, with a parent kick-off meeting and ongoing catechesis designed to help children grow in their understanding of Christ’s real and loving presence in the Eucharist. The celebration of First Communion is held in the spring.

Before preparing for First Communion, children should complete Reconciliation preparation and be enrolled in a Faith Formation or Religious Education program that provides a strong foundation for their Catholic life. Additional information can be found HERE.