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What happens during a Roman Catholic First Communion?
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Roman Catholicism
St. Peter's Basilica on St. Peter's Square, Vatican City.
In the Roman Catholic Church, a childās First Communion is a significant milestone typically celebrated around the age of seven or eight. This event marks the child's first time receiving the Eucharist, which is considered the central rite of Catholic worship and a sacrament of initiation.12
Before participating in their First Communion, children are required to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as confession).1
During the mass, the following occurs:
- Consecration: The priest consecrates bread and wine, which Roman Catholics believe are transubstantiated into the body and blood of Christ.31
- Sacred Meal: As a memorial of Christās sacrifice on the cross and a reflection of the Last Supper, the congregationāincluding the child receiving their First Communionāshares in the sacred meal.21
This practice is intended to strengthen the communicant's intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and allow them to participate in his sacrificial work.32