First Communion FAQ
Registration & Eligibility
Does my child need to register if they attend a Catholic school?
Yes.
All children preparing for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion at Our Lady of Sorrows Parish must participate in the parish preparation program, regardless of which school they attend. Catholic schools support faith formation, but sacramental preparation belongs to the parish and the family.
Does my family need to be registered at Our Lady of Sorrows?
Families should be registered parishioners of Our Lady of Sorrows and regularly participate in the life of the parish. If you are new to the parish, we would be delighted to welcome you. https://olsorrowset.archtoronto.org/siteassets/media/files/registration-for-parish-20250424.pdf
What documents are required?
If your child was baptized outside Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, a copy of the Baptism Certificate must be uploaded during registration. The original Baptism Certificate must also be brought to the Teaching Mass and Parent Orientation for verification before program materials are distributed.
What if my child is older than Grade 2?
That's perfectly fine. Many children begin preparation after Grade 2 for a variety of reasons.
Please contact us and we will be happy to discuss the most appropriate preparation process for your child's age and circumstances.
Sacramental Preparation
What will my child learn?
Children will learn about:
- God's love and mercy
- Prayer and friendship with Jesus
- The Sacrament of Reconciliation
- The Mass and the Eucharist
- Jesus' Real Presence in Holy Communion
- Living as a disciple of Jesus
We use engaging resources, discussion, prayer, activities, and the Blessed program to help children encounter Christ and understand the beauty of the sacraments.
Does my child celebrate First Reconciliation before First Holy Communion?
Yes.
The Church normally prepares children to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation before receiving Holy Communion for the first time. Through Reconciliation, children encounter God's mercy and prepare their hearts to receive Jesus in the Eucharist.
My child is nervous about First Reconciliation. Is that normal?
Absolutely.
Many children feel nervous at first. Throughout the preparation process, children learn what to expect and are guided carefully through the sacrament. Our goal is to help children experience God's love, mercy, and forgiveness.
Is attendance important?
Yes.
Sacramental preparation is an important part of helping children understand and appreciate the gifts of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. Families are expected to participate fully in the preparation process.
Because each session builds on the previous one, children who miss two or more sessions will normally be asked to defer the celebration of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion until the following year, after completing the preparation process.
If illness, family emergencies, or unusual circumstances arise, please contact us as soon as possible at: firstcommunion@sorrows.ca
Sunday Mass & Parish Life
Why is Sunday Mass so important?
The Eucharist is at the heart of Catholic life. First Holy Communion is not simply a ceremony but the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist.
Children learn to understand and love the Mass by participating regularly with their family and parish community.
When are the preparation sessions?
Preparation sessions take place on Sundays at 1:45 p.m.
Families are encouraged to attend the 12:30 p.m. Mass beforehand and remain afterward for the session.
What is Liturgy of the Word with Children?
Liturgy of the Word with Children is offered at the 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sunday Masses.
Children hear and reflect on the Sunday readings in an age-appropriate way before returning to the church for the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Families with younger children are strongly encouraged to participate.
Why does Our Lady of Sorrows celebrate First Communion during regular Sunday Masses?
We intentionally celebrate First Holy Communion during our regular parish Masses rather than at separate ceremonies.
This highlights that First Holy Communion is not the end of a program but the beginning of a lifelong participation in the Sunday Eucharist. It allows children and families to celebrate this important moment within the parish community that will continue to accompany them in faith.
Family Circumstances
What if our family has not been attending Mass regularly?
You are welcome.
Many families begin or renew their participation in parish life during sacramental preparation. We invite you to make Sunday Mass part of your family's rhythm and allow this journey to become an opportunity to grow closer to the Lord and His Church.
Our family has shared parenting arrangements. How should we proceed?
Please indicate this during registration and contact us if special accommodations are needed. We will do our best to support your child and work collaboratively with parents and guardians.
May grandparents be involved?
Absolutely.
Grandparents often play an important role in passing on the faith. We encourage grandparents to pray for their grandchildren, attend Mass with them when possible, and support the family throughout the sacramental journey.
Special Needs & Accommodations
What if my child has special needs?
Every child is a beloved gift from God.
If your child has learning, developmental, behavioural, communication, sensory, physical, or other special needs, please contact us. We will work with your family to determine the best way to support your child's preparation and participation in the sacraments.
For assistance, contact firstcommunion@sorrows.ca
My child has celiac disease or requires a low-gluten host. What should we do?
The Church provides options for those who require a low-gluten host or other accommodations related to medical conditions. We will work with your family to ensure your child can participate fully and reverently in First Holy Communion.
Continuing the Journey
How can we support our child at home?
Parents are the first teachers of the faith.
We encourage families to:
- Attend Mass together regularly
- Pray together daily
- Read the Sunday Gospel as a family
- Review the Blessed materials together
- Ask children what they learned after each session
- Talk about where God is at work in everyday life
You do not need to have all the answers. Your example, encouragement, and faith are among the greatest gifts you can offer your child.
"The Blessed materials sparked conversations we never expected. We found ourselves talking about God at the dinner table and praying together more often."
— OLS Parent
What happens after First Holy Communion?
First Holy Communion is not graduation from faith formation—it is the beginning of a deeper participation in the life of the Church.
We encourage families to continue attending Sunday Mass, participating in parish life, and growing together in friendship with Jesus.
How can our family continue to grow in faith?
Sacramental preparation is one step in a lifelong journey of discipleship.
Our Family Life Ministry offers opportunities for families to grow in faith, strengthen family relationships, and build friendships within the parish community.
"What began as preparation for a sacrament became the beginning of friendships and a deeper connection to parish life."
— OLS Parent
To learn more, contact Elise, our Family Life Minister, at familylife@sorrows.ca.
I'd Like to Help. How Can I Get Involved?
Sacramental preparation is only possible because of the generous volunteers who share their faith and accompany our young parishioners.
If you enjoy working with children, welcoming families, organizing events, assisting with hospitality, or supporting catechesis, we would love to speak with you.
No previous teaching experience is required. Training and support are provided.
Contact firstcommunion@sorrows.ca for any questions.
