Eucharist
"The Eucharist is ‘the source and summit of the Christian life.’ … For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself."
Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324
In the Holy Eucharist, the Catholic Church celebrates the true presence of Jesus Christ — Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity — under the appearance of bread and wine. Instituted by Christ at the Last Supper, the Eucharist is the Church’s greatest treasure and the center of Christian life. It nourishes us with grace, unites us more deeply to Christ and His Church, and strengthens us for our mission in the world.
At St. Joseph Parish, we hold the Eucharist at the heart of our liturgies, and we take great care in preparing our young people and adults to receive their First Holy Communion with understanding and devotion. Whether it’s your child’s first time receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, or you are returning to the faith as an adult, we are here to walk with you in faith.
First Holy Communion for Children
Children typically prepare for First Holy Communion in 2nd grade as part of our parish Religious Education Program or Calvert Catholic Schools.
To be considered a sacramental candidate, children must complete two consecutive years of faith formation — beginning in 1st grade and culminating in 2nd grade with the celebration of both Reconciliation and First Eucharist.
Parent participation is essential throughout the process. Families are expected to attend orientation sessions, support their child's learning at home, and be active participants in parish life.
For more information, please contact Mary Claire Griffin, CCD & Sacramental Coordinator.
First Holy Communion for Adults
Adults seeking First Holy Communion are invited to begin the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA).
This process includes learning about the Catholic faith, participating in community life, and preparing to receive the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist).
