First Holy Communion
All children who are preparing to receive their First Holy Communion, regardless of their age, must first be prepared to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). Please see the First Reconciliation page for information regarding the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Two years of preparation is necessary prior to receiving the sacrament of Communion. This is typically in 1st and 2nd grade, with First Communion being received in April or May of the 2nd grade year.
The sacramental preparation plan for those children in grades 3-8 who have had no prior religious education will be a two-year process. During both years, the child(ren) will attend regular RE/DASH classes with their age-mates. During the second year, they will attend separate sacrament preparation classes as well. Parents of these child(ren) may be asked to attend one or more parent sessions.
Contact Cathy Gillooly in the Religious Education Office at 630-554-1425 or reo@stanneparish.org if you have questions or concerns about First Holy Communion.
Important First Communion Dates for 2025-2026
First Communion Parent Meeting:
Parents of 2nd grade children (and older students in year 2 of sac prep) who will be receiving First Communion in May of 2026 must attend a meeting on Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 7 to 8pm. At least one parent must attend this important meeting.
Parent & Child Retreat:
At least one parent is expected to attend with your child for one of the following Retreats: March 14, 2026 OR March 21, 2026
Both retreats are being held on Saturdays from 3:30 to 6pm at St. Anne Parish and will conclude with the families attending the 5:00 Mass.
Church Tour:
2nd grade students will go on a tour of the Church during their regular class time the week of April 27 – 29, 2026. The older students in year 2 of sac prep will have their tour during class on April 23, 2026. Parents are welcome but not required to participate.
First Communion Rehearsal:
Rehearsals will be held on Thursday, April 30 at 4:45 and 6:15pm. A parent (or other responsible adult) must attend with the child.
First Communion Masses:
The First Communion Masses are scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 10:00am and 1:00pm.