The Eucharistic meal can only be prepared within the sacrifice of the Mass.

The Holy Mass is the renewing of the sacrifice which Christ offered for us as atonement for our sins; but the sacrifice is also at the same time, the preparation of the Eucharistic meal, the sacrament of our union with Christ in grace.

The Holy Eucharist is a true sacrament, instituted by Christ. Christ is really present in the Holy Eucharist, even when not being received. It is therefore to be honored and adored. The whole Christ is present in either kind and is received by the communicant. For the wheat bread and grape wine are transubstantiated by the ordained priest into the flesh and blood of Christ so that only the appearance of bread and wine remains.

FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

The Diocese of Youngstown determines that children in 2nd grade are at an age of understanding the Eucharist as Christ and can therefore prepare to receive the sacrament. Children preparing to receive the sacrament should have been in religious education classes through the parish or St. Paul School by their first grade year. 

SACRAMENT DATES

FIRST RECONCILIATION: April 5, 2025 - 11:00 AM

FIRST EUCHARIST: May 3, 2025 - 11:30 AM - OR - May 4, 2025 - 11:30 AM Parish Mass

MANDATORY SACRAMENT PREPARATION RETREAT DATES

FIRST RECONCILIATION RETREAT: Sunday, March 30, 2025 2:00-5:00 PM

FIRST COMMUNION RETREAT: Sunday, April 27, 2025 1:00 - 3:30 PM

SACRAMENT PREPARATION/RETREAT FEES

First Reconciliation/First Eucharist Retreat Fee (combined): $65

For more information contact the Director of Faith Formation For Children,

Dustine May at dmay@stpaulncanton.org or 330-499-2201 ext. 107.