"The Eucharist is the heart and the summit of the Church's life, for in it Christ associates his Church and all her members with his sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving offered once for all on the cross to his Father; by his sacrifice he pours out the graces of salvation on his Body which is the Church." (CCC 1407)

In accordance with Diocesan guidelines, we have a two year First Communion preparation program. The typical age to begin First Communion preparation is first grade, and the student will attend classes in first grade and second grade, receiving the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist in the spring of the second grade year.

Older elementary students needing to prepare for Eucharist will be placed in a class of students of a similar age to prepare.

Students in middle and high school needing to prepare for Eucharist will be placed in a class with other middle and high school students to prepare for both Eucharist and Confirmation, a process that will take two or three years to complete (depending on the student's engagement and attitude.)

Please contact the Religious Education Team at 703-451-8576 if you have questions about your child's preparation for the Eucharist. We look forward to speaking with you!