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What do you need to know on the day of?
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1) Arrival Time
While your immediate family will have a seat reserved for them, we suggest that you and your child arrive at least 20min early so that you are not rushed and a volunteer can review / practice with your child how to go to communion.
At some of our parish Churches, parking and seating fills up fast. We would advise you to inform your guests to arrive at least 20min early (or earlier).
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2) what to wear
Masks are optional.
Your child should wear what you consider to be dress clothes or your "Sunday best". Most boys wear dress pants with a shirt and tie or a suit. Girls usually wear a white dress. It is entirely up to you what you choose. It is not necessary to go to any great expense.
If your child has gloves as part of their outfit, these must be removed before receiving communion as the Holy Sacrament should not be received unto gloved hands.
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3) bring the banner
This craft is part of the online preparation (materials in your craft package.) The banner that you and your child created will be used as the reserved sign on your pew the day your child celebrates the Sacrament of First Communion. Please bring this with you. Please make sure your child’s first and last name are on the back of the banner. Please bring the banner home with you at the end of Mass.
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4) watch & pRactice -
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5) Photos
In order to preserve the solemnity of the event, we ask that you choose one person to be the designated "picture taker". This is to avoid the "paparazzi effect" at Mass. The focus at Mass is the Worship of God. One picture during the reception of communion is permitted however, every effort must be made not to turn this into a "photo-op". Your child's attention should be on receiving communion - not posing for a photo. An opportunity for photos with the priest after the Mass will be available.
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6) Guests:
There is reserved seating for up to 10 people including your child & your party in "near front seats".
Additional guests may find seating in "general seating" which is first come first serve.
There is no more contact tracing or social distancing in our churches.
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Turn nervousness into excitement
Depending on your child, they might be excited, nervous, timid, or scared for their First Communion. That's OK and that's normal.
Here are some tips to make the day less nervous and more exciting:- Schedule a special event after their First Communion (ice cream, a special toy, etc).
- Involved the extended family virtually... ask them call or FaceTime when you get home.
- Reinforce the kindness of our priests. Even if you haven't met them yet, we can confirm they super chill and will make the process easier. You can get to know them by watching some past TV episodes of them. The Shepherd's Kitchen episodes are funny for kids to watch!
- Practice the process at home, following along the steps in the video above.
- Confidence rubs off. If you can be confident and calm, they will pick up on it. After all, it's not a big deal right? Their First Communion shouldn't be their last... so what a great start to prepare together.
- Re-watch the "Church Tour" video with Fr. Patrick.
- If you have questions about the logistics, please email Katherine or call the office.
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Uncertain? Connect with Katherine
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kmarshdol.caCoordinator of Ministry in Elementary Schools & 1stConfession/1st Communion
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