First Communion & First Reconciliation

Saint Clare of Assisi offers a two-year preparation program for First Holy Communion and First Reconciliation. These sacred Sacraments require a solid spiritual foundation—formed both in the heart and at home.

A Family-Centered Approach

  • Weekly 30–45 minute lessons completed at home by parents and children.
  • Monthly in-person sessions with a parish catechist, special activities, and parent connection.
  • Full curriculum and support provided to all families.

Program Overview

Year One

  • Begins in 1st grade.
  • Required for students not enrolled in Catholic school.
  • Catholic school students fulfill Year One through religion classes.
  • Monthly parent-student sessions required (max 2 absences per year).
  • One in-person make-up session will be offered at the end of the year.

Year Two

  • Students must have completed Year One through a parish, Catholic school, or approved homeschool program.
  • Parents, please send verification (e.g. letter from parish or school report card) to [email protected].
  • Mass attendance is required every Sunday and on Holy Days of Obligation.
  • Monthly in-person attendance:
    • Catholic school: attend at least 4 of 8 sessions
    • Non-Catholic school: attend at least 6 of 8 sessions
  • One make-up session offered at the end of the year.
  • Attendance at First Communion rehearsal is required.

View the 2025–2026 Faith Formation Handbook »

Special Notes

Homeschooling Families

Students using a Catholic homeschool curriculum must present materials from both the prior and current year to the Director of Child Formation and will register as Catholic school participants.

Older Students (Grades 2–5)

  • 2nd grade, non-Catholic school, no prior formation: register for Year One.
  • 3rd–5th grade Catholic school: register for Year Two or contact T.J. Cofield about the CUSP program.

Middle & High School Students

Students prepare through our Youth Formation program. Contact Fernando Cartagena, Director of Youth Formation.

Session Schedule

  • Sunday, September 14
  • Sunday, October 12
  • Sunday, November 9
  • Sunday, December 14
  • Sunday, January 11, 2026
  • Sunday, February 1, 2026
  • Sunday, March 8, 2026
  • Sunday, April 26, 2026

Special Dates (Year Two / CUSP)

  • First Reconciliation: Saturday, February 21, 2026
  • First Communion Rehearsal: Saturday, April 18, 2026
  • First Holy Communion Masses:
    • Saturday, May 2, 2026
    • Saturday, May 9, 2026

Registration Fees

  • Year One: $70 per student
  • Year Two (Non-Catholic School): $85 per student
  • Year Two (Catholic School): $45 per student

Questions?

For questions about First Holy Communion preparation for students in grades 1–5,
contact T.J. Cofield, Director of Child Formation:
[email protected]