EUCHARIST

The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. The term “Eucharist” originates from the Greek word eucharistia, meaning thanksgiving.

"Take; this is my body"
- Mark 14:22

In the celebration of the Eucharist, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit and the instrumentality of the priest. The whole Christ is truly present -- body, blood, soul, and divinity -- under the appearances of bread and wine, the glorified Christ who rose from the dead. This is what the Church means when she speaks of the "Real Presence" of Christ in the Eucharist.

First Holy Communion

Preparation Details:

• What: Preparation for First Holy Communion follows (not precedes) preparation for First Penance, and is offered in addition to systematic Religious Formation.
• Who: Youth who have received the Sacrament of Baptism and have reached the "age of reason" at about age seven (which is usually the age one is as an 2nd grader).
• When: Sundays from 9:45 am to 10:45 am on:

      September 27, 2026                January 17, 2027
      October 25, 2026                     February 28, 2027
      November 22, 2026                 March 21, 2027
      December 13, 2026                 April 25, 2027    

• Where: St. Thomas More parish

Please note: This is a PARENT/YOUTH class where at least one adult (parent, grandparent, other relative) who is accompanying the youth on this faith journey also attends.

Registration:

• One only needs to fill out the online form, "First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion Preparation," ONCE (to register to receive preparation for BOTH Sacraments). To register, click on this link: usa-va-richmond.public.onecamino.com/570/formation-registration​

​First Eucharist Celebration:

• May 22 & 23, 2027
  • Saturday Mass at 5 pm
  • Sunday Mass at 8:30 am and 11:00 am

Contact Information:

• For more information, contact Trish Pabis at [email protected].