Confirmation and First Communion Retreats

On March 8th, our Year 2 8th-grade Confirmation students participated in a full-day retreat, a journey of reflection and deepening their connection with God and each other. The day began with a communal morning prayer and the Liturgy of the Hours—an ancient Christian practice prayed worldwide, primarily by religious communities. Despite some initial uncertainty, the students were drawn in as they experienced the slow work of God.

Then, after we played games outside on the church lawn, we stayed there on a beautiful day to share in small group discussions and listen to testimonies about how the Holy Spirit works in our lives. The day concluded with Adoration and Reconciliation in the Jesuit Community Chapel. This full-day retreat allowed Confirmation students to go beyond learning about God in class by slowing down to reflect on the deeper meaning of life and recognize God's presence in it. These students were able to experience a more personal connection with Him.

Similarly, on March 15th, our Year 2 First Communion students participated in a half-day retreat. They received a personal tour of the church by Fr. Greg, who showed them his vestments and explained their significance. He gave them a tour of the sanctuary, discussing the importance of the Eucharist, and had them all practice genuflecting. In the Reconciliation room, a sacred space where Catholics confess their sins and receive absolution, Fr. Greg spoke about the beauty of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, explaining how much God loves us and how this sacrament allows us to experience His forgiveness. At the end of the retreat, the children made banners in preparation for their First Communion ceremony. And finally, the children's favorite part was playing soccer on the field, giving them a chance to really bond which God delights in! This retreat gave the First Communion students a first-hand experience of the slow work of God, which was incredible to witness and a privilege to join.

Rosie Costa, Children's Faith Formation Coordinator

Children's Faith Formation is for children between the ages of 6 and 17 who want to learn more about their Catholic faith and/or prepare for their sacraments. Volunteer catechists accompany our youth during preparation for the sacraments of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation.