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Sacraments of Initiation
First Communion & Reconciliation
A child's first encounter with the Body of Christ and the mercy of God. A milestone of faith for the whole family.
Two Beautiful Sacraments
First Reconciliation & First Holy Communion
First Holy Communion is one of the most precious moments in a Catholic child's life — the first time they receive Jesus in the Eucharist. Alongside it, First Reconciliation (Confession) opens their hearts to God's mercy and forgiveness. Together, these two sacraments deepen a child's relationship with Christ and their place in the Church.
At the Parish of Our Lady of the Way, our sacramental preparation program is designed for children in Year 3 and above. Over several months, children and their families journey together through prayer, learning, and reflection — preparing hearts to receive these beautiful gifts of grace.
The 2026 program is now full. We are accepting expressions of interest for the 2027 program, which will run from March to June. Register your interest below and we will contact you as soon as dates are confirmed.
First Holy Communion
Receiving Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time
First Reconciliation
Experiencing God's mercy and forgiveness
What Children Learn
Preparation Topics
Each session is designed to be engaging, age-appropriate, and deeply formative — helping children grow in faith and understanding.
Understanding the Eucharist
Children learn that the Eucharist is the Body and Blood of Christ, and the source and summit of Christian life. They discover the beauty and mystery of this sacred gift.
The Mass Explained
From the Entrance Song to the Dismissal, children explore the parts of the Mass, learning when to stand, sit, listen, and respond — and why each part matters.
Reconciliation & Forgiveness
Children learn about God's endless mercy, how to examine their conscience, and the joy of being forgiven. They practise saying their first Confession with confidence.
Prayer & Scripture
Through simple prayers, Bible stories, and reflection, children develop a personal relationship with Jesus and learn to talk to God in their own words.
Living as a Disciple
What does it mean to follow Jesus? Children explore kindness, honesty, generosity, and love — putting their faith into action at home, school, and in the community.
Family & Parish Community
Parents and families are partners in preparation. Special family sessions help parents guide their children, and the whole parish celebrates together on the big day.
Requirements
To participate in the program, children should meet the following criteria.
- Baptised Catholic (or received into the Catholic Church)
- In Year 3 or above at school (typically aged 8–10)
- Regular attendance at Sunday Mass with family
- Participation in all preparation sessions
- Parent or guardian involvement in family sessions
- First Reconciliation celebrated before First Communion
Program Fee
The fee covers all materials, resources, the retreat day, and celebration. Financial assistance is available.
First Communion & Reconciliation Program
All sessions, materials, retreat, celebration
Financial assistance available. No child is ever turned away due to cost. Please speak confidentially with the parish office.
What the fee includes:
- All weekly preparation session materials
- Child-friendly workbook and resources
- Retreat day activities and materials
- First Reconciliation and Communion certificates
- Communion candle and memento
- Celebration gathering after the Mass
2027 Program
Key Dates
These dates are indicative and will be confirmed in late 2026. Register your interest to be notified when registration opens.
Registration Opens
Online registration opens for the 2027 First Communion and Reconciliation program. Places are limited.
Parent Information Evening
An evening for parents to learn about the program, expectations, and how to support their child's preparation.
Weekly Preparation Sessions
Children attend weekly sessions on Sunday mornings after 9:00am Mass, exploring faith, prayer, and the sacraments.
First Reconciliation
Children celebrate their First Confession in a beautiful and gentle service, experiencing God's mercy and forgiveness.
Retreat Day
A special day of prayer, reflection, and fun activities to deepen the children's understanding and excitement for First Communion.
First Holy Communion Masses
Children receive Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time at a beautiful celebration Mass with family and the parish community.
The Celebration
On the Day of First Communion
A beautiful and memorable celebration for children, families, and the whole parish community.
Arrive Early
Families arrive 30 minutes before Mass. Children gather with their group for final preparations and a prayer.
The Mass
A special Mass where children participate in the liturgy, read prayers, and bring up the gifts.
First Communion
Children receive the Eucharist for the first time, a moment of profound grace and joy.
Photography
A professional photographer captures the moment. Family photos are taken after Mass in the church.
Celebration Gathering
After Mass, families gather for light refreshments, cake, and fellowship to celebrate together.
Certificates & Mementos
Each child receives a certificate, a Communion candle, and a keepsake to remember their special day.
Common Questions
First Communion FAQs
Take the First Step
Register Your Interest
Complete the form below and our Sacramental Coordinator will contact you when 2027 registration opens. The 2026 program is now full.
Questions About First Communion?
Danielle Chen, our Sacramental Coordinator, is here to help. Whether you have questions about eligibility, the program, or preparation, please reach out.