Parish Youth First Communion
Sunday, April 26, 2009

        This year's first communion class included seven of our Holy Angels youths. The beautiful ceremony concluded weeks of spiritual preparation and included parents and godparents in this great sacrament. The mass began with a procession of first communicants (each carrying a lighted candle), along with servers, lay ministers and celebrant, Father Taylor. After scripture readings, Father Taylor directed his sermon in a special way to the first communion candidates. The offertory gifts were presented by candidates and parents before the bread and wine were offered to God in preparation for the Eucharist.
        After the consecration, each first communicant received the Blessed Sacrament along with parents. The congregation then joined the seven communicants and their families in receiving the Eucharist. After communion, the first communion class recited a special communion prayer together, and received rosaries from their godparents to commemorate this occasion. Following the conclusion of mass and the customary class picture with Father Taylor, a reception was held in the Parish Center for communion candidates, families and parishioners.
        Special thanks to Director of Religious Education, Stephanie Whitley, and Daryl Whitley who led the preparation of the candidates, as well as to all who assisted with the ceremony and reception. What a blessing to welcome 7 young parishioners into full communion with the church!