First Penance and First Eucharist 2008-2009 FAQ's

1. What does the preparation for my child to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation (Penance) and Eucharist involve?

   Children preparing for these sacraments are prepared primarily at home with their family. Parents/Guardians, who are responsible for preparing the children, will attend 4 parent ONLY gatherings from September through March. A Reconciliation and two Eucharist ½ day retreats are held for parents and children. Parents will be provided with all materials to be used at home. There is an additional optional offering for the 2008/2009 year. A group of parents have elected to have their children do some of the “homework” in a more formal group setting at the parish hall after school. Two parents will facilitate each session. Parents will be asked to help with facilitating the group. This group will be called the First Eucharist Family Faith Group (FE FFG).  If you are interested in joining or would like additional information, please contact Maggie Perreault at 978-897-6075 or mperreault@yahoo.com before July 18, 2007.

2. When will the children be receiving these sacraments for the first time?

   We have planned a Penance Service which will include those children receiving Reconciliation for the first time on Thursday evening December 11, 2008 at 7:00 PM (there is no school in Stow the following day). First Communions will be scheduled for the first two week-ends in May 2009. Sign up opportunities for these dates will take place at the January 20^th Parent sessions. We try to limit each group to ten children.

3. Should children who are preparing for these sacraments also participate in Generations of Faith?

   Most definitely! It is expected that each child involved in sacramental preparation will attend Generations of Faith. It is an integral piece of the faith formation for all of our parish family and would be especially important during the sacramental preparation year.

4. When will the Parent sessions be offered?

   The calendar for all of the parent gathering sessions, which also lists the dates for the parent/child retreats and the optional FE FFG meetings is included in this mailing. Each parent gathering session will be offered twice, once in the evening and once in the morning, so that you may choose the most convenient time for you.

5. Is there a program fee for Sacramental preparation?

   Yes, there is a program fee of $30, which covers the costs of books, supplies, and retreat materials.

First Eucharist Calendar 2008/2009
(revised 7/18/2008)