Celebrating first Holy Communion with children

Abstract

Present pastoral practice shows that most families strive to make the experience of First Holy Communion a memorable one. However it is clearly visible that families focus on the candidates' attire, the floral decoration, while not enough attention is given to the Eucharist. Consequently, First Holy Communion can either become a pageant or a celebration of God's grace in the life of the communicant, family and parish. The dissertation opens with a historical excursus illustrating liturgical practices related to First Holy Communion. It emphasises on the principle of active participation of first communicants, the structure of the Liturgy of the Word and Eucharist in the Mass, the mission entrusted to first communicants and to all the faithful to live daily Mass by building the kingdom of God's mercy and justice. The concluding chapter discusses pastoral practices which could enhance First Holy Communion Mass.