The Sacrament of the Reconciliation/Eucharist

Sacramental Policy :
For First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, a child must be registered in the parish with his/her family and attend Faith Formation, Catholic School, or Homeschooling that includes a Catholic Component. Typically we start First Reconciliation/Eucharist Preparation in the 2nd Grade but older kids are invited as well to join in the First Reconciliation/Eucharist Prep.  Preparation begins with a baptized Catholic child who is in a Religious Education program the year for a full year before the year of preparation.  Classes are on Sundays twice a month from 9 am to 10:30 am at Summerville Catholic School.

If your child is over the age of 8 and has NOT been baptized your child will be invited to participate in the parish program called OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation). 

In addition:

• At least one parent/guardian should be a practicing, active member of St. John the Beloved Parish.
• The parent/guardian must provide a copy of the child’s Baptismal certificate if baptized in a Parish other than St. John the Beloved upon registration.
• The parent/guardian and the child are expected to participate in the Sunday Mass every week.
• The child must be currently participating in a program of systematic, approved catechesis either at St. John's Faith Formation, Summerville Catholic School, or  Homeschooling this includes Catholic Formation.
• The child must also attend preparation (outside of Faith Formation/Summerville Catholic or Homeschooling) for the reception of First Penance/Eucharist. 
• A child must have been thoroughly prepared for and celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation before they receive their First Eucharist.
• Attendance is critical with no more than 3 absences for the year
• Canon Law #97.2:   Must have completed the seventh year of age.