Frequently Asked Questions
 

Must a child receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before he/she can receive First Holy Eucharist?

The Church teaches that it is “the place of parents, as well as the duty of pastors, to take care that children who have reached the use of reason are prepared properly and, after they have made sacramental Confession, are refreshed with this divine food as soon as possible” [canon 914]. The same canon of the Code of Canon Law teaches that it is “for the pastor to exercise vigilance so that children who have not attained the use of reason or whom he judges are not sufficiently disposed do not approach Holy Communion”. In the Archdiocese of Toronto, it is normative that children and adults preparing to receive Holy Communion for the first time also participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation beforehand, as a means to prepare themselves most appropriately, and to inculcate a desire for Reconciliation throughout their life. 

When should a child start going to Reconciliation (Confession)?

In consultation with the pastor, a child normally starts going to Confession as he/she prepares for First Holy Communion and after he/she has received instruction (catechesis) on this sacrament from the parish.

 

Is it the school's responsibility to prepare the children for the Sacrament of Reconcilation?

 

• All sacraments are ecclesial celebrations, i.e. celebrations of the Church;
• Parents are the primary educators of their children in the ways of faith;
• Catholic schools are an integral part of ongoing Religious Education, including preparation for the sacraments.

• Sunday worship;
• Prayer in the family;
• Education in a Catholic School system (or equivalent formation in the parish in Catholic doctrine and life-style);
• Daily living of a Catholic life-style appropriate to one’s age and spiritual development

•  Sunday worship;
• Prayer in the family;
• Specific sacramental catechesis on the sacrament being anticipated;
• Daily living of a Catholic life-style appropriate to one’s age and spiritual development.

How can we, the parents, help our children prepare for the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

This is a very important question that requires constant turning to Christ's presence especially in the Sacraments. Like every child, every family is unique. Parents are privileged teachers of the faith in the family, and this profound privilege requires you to 'walk the talk'. Active participation at Mass on Sundays is always essential. In consultation with your parish, these ideas may help if you do them: being present at your children's parish preparation when appropriate; going to Confession regularly; praying for and with your children and bless them; loving the Church, the people of God, publicly and privately. ​