Parishes of Blessington & Valleymount
Valleymount · Lacken · Manor Kilbride · Crosschapel · Blessington
Sacraments
First Holy Communion
The Eucharist is at the heart of our parish life. The Catechism describes it as “the source and summit of the Christian life” (CCC 1324). At Mass, through the power of the Holy Spirit, bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ. Jesus is truly present, and we are nourished by Him in Holy Communion.
The Mass makes present the saving sacrifice of Christ and gathers us as one body in Him. Receiving Holy Communion deepens our union with Christ and with one another, strengthens us against sin, and sends us out to live the Gospel in daily life.
The Church calls us to participate in Sunday Mass and to receive Holy Communion with reverence, preparing our hearts through prayer and, when necessary, the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Preparing for First Holy Communion
In Ireland, children usually celebrate First Holy Communion in primary school, often during Second Class. This is a joyful milestone in the life of the child, the family, and the parish community.
Preparation takes place
- At home, through conversation, family prayer and example
- In school, as part of the religious education programme. (Children who are not attending a Catholic primary school take part in sacramental preparation classes outside school hours)
- In the parish, through sacramental preparation gatherings and liturgies
Before receiving Holy Communion for the first time, children also celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
First Holy Communion is not just a special day, but the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist. We encourage families to continue participating in Sunday Mass and parish life.
Enroll your child for First Holy Communion 2026
First Holy Communion 2026 Calendar
St Mary’s, Blessington. May 9th
St Joseph’s, Valleymount. May 10th
Lacken NS. May 2nd
St Brigid’s Manor Kilbride
Gaelscoil na Lochanna. May 23rd
Blessington No 1 & Educate Together. May 17th