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Finding the Ideal First Communion Gift

Celebrating a First Communion

First Communion is most often celebrated by children around the age of seven or eight, when they have reached the age of reason and are capable of participating in the sacramental life of the Roman Catholic Church. First Communion is to be preceded by the sacraments of baptism and reconciliation. If a person has not been baptized as a baby or small child, they will usually be baptized shortly before their First Communion.

Church Tradition

According to the churches decree, the sacrament of penance must be received before First Communion. "It is the responsibility of parents as well as of the pastor to see that children who have reached the age of reason are correctly prepared and are nourished by the divine food as early as possible, preceded by sacramental confession; it is also for the pastor to be vigilant lest any children come to the Holy Banquet who have not reached the age of reason".

While this sacrament usually takes place when the person is still a child, it can be celebrated at any age provided the person has never celebrated the sacrament before.

First Communion Clothing and Medals

First Communion gowns, suits or dresses are especially wonderful for this special event. Other gifts may be dove pendants, Communion crosses, medals of the Holy Spirit, bookmarks, The Holy Bible, rosary case gift sets, candle holders, spiritual picture frames or any special piece of jewelry

A First Communion Reception

Another very special gift would be to host the communion reception. It can be a simple family party or a lavish affair but it always centers on the person or child who has taken communion for the first time. Especially in the Catholic Church, First Holy Communion is a day that means a lot to the child and to the whole family.

What used to be a simple family gathering to mark the occasion has become a major affair that brings together family, friends, and classmates of the child. However, even though the guest of honor may be just a young preteen child, it is important to keep in mind that this is not a typical child's party. Remember that a Communion party will no doubt have guests of all ages. While the overall feel or theme of the party should be reflective of the child, it must also cater to adults as guests rather than as chaperones.

If you are planning a traditional banquet hall reception, be sure to include activities for the children, face painting, caricatures and sand and spin art are crowd pleasers. A disc jockey can certainly keep everyone entertained, and will usually offer a variety of packages to choose from. Be sure to give your DJ a list of special requests of the child's favorite songs and artists.

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