Through those who receive the Eucharist, Christ united them to all the faithful in one body—the Church. Communion renews, strengthens, and deepens this incorporation into the Church, already achieved by Baptism. By the Eucharistic celebration we already unite ourselves with the heavenly liturgy and anticipate eternal life, when God will be all in all. In brief, the Eucharist is the sum and summary of our faith.
***The Catechism of the Catholic Church
Children preparing to receive the sacrament of First Communion must complete two consecutive years of religious education through the Basilica of Saint John's Religious Education Program, have attended another parish's religious education program for one year immediately preceding their transfer to the Basilica program, or attended a Catholic school. The second year of their religious education at the Basilica will focus on preparation for the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Communion. Children can be no younger than grade two to receive this sacrament. For more information contact our Religious Education Director, Margaret Stastny at 244-3101 ext. 204, or contact the Basilica of Saint John parish office at 515-244-3101.