Eucharist
The Sacrament of the Eucharist, also called the Mass, is “the source and summit of the Christian Life.” All of the other sacraments point to it. When the priest prays the words of consecration over the bread and wine at Mass, we believe, in accordance with the teaching of Jesus, that they become his Body and Blood. We receive this most precious of gifts in Holy Communion, which intimately unites us with Jesus and helps us become more like him through the grace he gives us by his very presence in our human bodies. Because the Son of God is truly present in the Eucharist, Catholics also adore the Blessed Sacrament during Exposition, and we reverence the tabernacle where the Eucharist is placed after Mass.
Catholics who are ready to receive Jesus in the Eucharist are invited to receive Holy Communion during Mass. Our hearts are ready to receive him when we have been baptized in the Catholic Church (or baptized in another church and later received into the Catholic Church) and are not in a state of serious sin. If you are not yet ready to receive Jesus in the Eucharist, you are welcome to line up during Communion and receive a blessing (indicated by placing your hands across your chest).
First Communion
Holy Redeemer Parish offers a program to prepare children who will be seven years of age (grade 2) and older to celebrate 1st Reconciliation and 1st Holy Communion. The process for and the celebration of these sacraments is a family affair and involves both the parent and child. The most important component of the process is weekly attendance at Sunday Mass at Holy Redeemer Parish.
Registration for the preparation process for 1st Communion in 2024 is now CLOSED. Please watch for announcements for the next process to begin in September 2024.
Questions? Please email us at: [email protected]
If you would like to learn more about preparing to receive the Eucharist yourself, please contact the parish office and we would be happy to assist you.