First Communion Lessons

 
 

First Holy Communion

What is a First Communion Class? 

The First Communion class is to prepare children (7-8 yr old/2nd graders) to receive the Eucharist, the Body and Blood of Christ, for the first time by teaching them the major components of the Christian faith, helping them deepen their personal faith and piety, and teaching them about the sacrament.. 

Who should participate in the First Communion Class?

Any and all ages, but especially designed for 7+ year olds/2nd graders. 

How long is the class?

This class is 12 sessions in length, with accompanying worksheets, including a First Communion parent/student retreat. Each session runs 40-45 minutes. 

What will we cover in this class? 

Six Chief Parts of the Catechism 

  1. Baptism 

  2. Apostles’ Creed

  3. Lord’s Prayer

  4. Ten Commandments

  5. Confession 

  6. Lord’s Supper 

What is required to complete this class?

‍ ‍Memory Work:

  • Apostles’ Creed

  • Lord’s Prayer

  • 10 Commandments

    Work Sheets:

  • Weekly worksheet of 10 questions to be answered with the help of parents and the use of the Bible and Small Catechism. 

    Resources:

  • Bible 

  • Luther’s Small Catechism 

What is expected of the parents?

  • Because parents are the primary catechists of their children, we ask that one parent accompany their child to each class. We see First Communion instruction as a partnership with you in the discipleship process that God has entrusted to you. A parent’s participation is essential—not only by attending class, but also by helping their child with worksheets, memory work, and prayerfully discerning their readiness to receive the Eucharist. If a parent is unable to attend a regularly scheduled class, a make-up meeting will be arranged with the pastor.

Is my child ready?

  • Complete this form with your child to help you evaluate whether they are ready to enter our First Communion class.

 

Student Worksheets & Teaching Notes

Lesson 1 - The Greatest Story Ever Told (The Bible - Article 1)

Lesson 2 - The Rescuer (The Gospel - Baptism - Article 2)

Lesson 3 - The Christian Life (10 Commandments)

Lesson 4 - The Christian Life (Holy Spirit and Church - Article 3)

Lesson 5 - Prayer (Lord’s Prayer)

Lesson 6  - Private Confession and Forgiveness

Lesson 7 - God Feeds His People: God’s Pattern of Grace

Lesson 8 - The Passover: From the Lamb to the Lamb of God 

Lesson 9 - The Real Presence of Jesus in Holy Communion

Lesson 10 - The Benefits given to us in Holy Communion

Lesson 11 - Receiving the Sacrament Faithfully

Lesson 12 - Holy Liturgy

Lesson 13 - Holy Space, Holy Things, and Holy People

First Communion Dress Code

Girls:

  • White dress,

  • Dresses should show modesty

    • Shoulders should be covered

  • No purses

Boys:

  • Suits recommended

  • If suit is not available:

    • White button-down dress shirt

    • Tie

    • Dress shoes

  • Solid color suit or blazer and slacks

    • Shirts may have a slight pattern, but should be mostly white in color

  • Ties should be solid color or with tasteful, small design

This dress code helps us remember that First Communion is a sacred and joyful milestone in the life of a young Christian. When we gather for the Lord’s Supper, Christ Himself gives us His true body and blood for the forgiveness of our sins. White symbolizes the new life and purity we have in Christ.

The traditional veil for the girls also carries meaning: it reflects reverence, humility, and devotion as a young girl approaches the Eucharist, historically symbolizing the Church’s loving submission to Christ.

In the same way, modest and formal attire helps communicate the dignity, joy, and sacredness of the occasion.