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A Complete Guide To First Holy Communions | Born Gifted


First Holy Communion

Here at Born Gifted HQ we sell lots of Communion gifts so it's no surprise that we get asked lots of questions about Communions in general.  That's why we put together this handy guide to help alleviate any confusion.

Many people hear the term ‘First Holy Communion’ but do you really know what it is, why people do it and what to do if you’re invited to one? If not, read on! 

What is a First Holy Communion?


In the simplest terms, First Holy Communion is a religious ceremony performed in church by Catholics when a child reaches the age of around 7-8 years and celebrates the first time that they accept the bread and wine (also known as the Eucharist). Catholics believe that the bread and wine are the body and blood of Christ (through the miracle of transubstantiation) After this special occasion, the child is able to accept the bread and wine at Catholic Mass (church services) and is more deeply initiated into the Catholic Church. It is necessary for the child to have been Baptised (Christened) prior to their First Holy Communion.

Where and when is a First Communion ceremony held?


Communion Tankard


The First Holy Communion is held in church within a special ‘First Holy Communion Mass’ and involves several children (the communicants) receiving the Sacrament at once, in a service that is open to the whole community. The children and their parents will have been preparing for their special day by attending a series of classes at the Church or local Catholic school. They will also have been regularly attending Mass. The First Holy Communion Mass is usually held on a Sunday, and often, from May to July.

Who goes to the child's Communion and what to wear?


Family, Godparents and friends of the family will be invited to celebrate, along with the church-going community that gathers together each week. The child will be dressed up – girls in a pretty white dress and veil, and boys in a suit or suit jacket. Anyone attending a First Holy Communion should dress appropriately for church – modestly and smartly but not over-the-top. Sports jackets for men or smart shirt and trousers are perfect, and a pretty dress or a top and skirt for ladies is ideal.

The First Communion service


The Mass will last for approximately an hour though this will vary, sometimes up to 90 minutes. It will consist of prayers, hymns, readings, bidding prayers and the actual Communion. Children will receive their Holy Communion first, then any other worshippers will be invited to receive Communion too. If you are not Catholic you can just stay seated at this point.


Communion Token


If the family still have the baptismal candle that was held for the child by the Godparents at their baptism then they are often encouraged to bring that along. The lighting of candles is frequently part of the service.


What happens after the Communion service and what Communion gifts should I take?


If you’ve been invited to a First Holy Communion, enjoy sharing this special day with family or friends. You won’t be able to take photos in the Church but make sure you get plenty outside after the service for the Communion photo album. The family may even have a professional photographer in attendance.

There is usually a ‘Communion breakfast’ afterwards for everyone to get together and celebrate. Often the Church will provide light refreshments after the service and then you will all move on to a gathering at home or in a local venue. It is a lovely idea to give a card and a Communion gift that the child can keep to remember their special day forever. Here at Born Gifted we have some great ideas for holy communion gifts such as bibles, Communion keepsakes and even a personalised money box.

Communion Bracelet

The child will no doubt remember this special day for the rest of their life and you can be happy that you got to share it with them. 
Above all, have a great day, and armed with this information you will be well prepared!

View our Communion Gifts

UPDATED MAR 2022
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