In the Diocese of Phoenix, children are now confirmed and receive their First Eucharist in third grade. These two sacraments are celebrated at the same liturgy, usually in the spring during the Easter season. It is a truly beautiful opportunity for your child to complete his or her initiation into the Catholic Church.

Please note that your family must participate in our Family Catechesis program for at least a year before your child begins immediate preparation for any sacrament.

Preparation for confirmation and First Eucharist takes place primarily within the context of Family Catechesis sessions along with a few family day retreats throughout the year, one in the fall that focuses on the link between baptism and confirmation and two in the spring, one of which includes a rehearsal for the liturgy.

Each child receives materials to help them and the family prepare for both sacraments. All of these will aid in their preparation throughout the year and are tools that can be used by you and their sponsors as well.

Particular Sundays of Family Catechesis are set aside for First Eucharist preparation. We have a wonderful team that has been hard at work planning for your child. We ask that in the week (or weeks) leading up to a First Eucharist class day that you spend time at home with your child going over the material covered in the assigned chapter. The Family Focus Poster and supplemental materials we provide will assist you in this.

Your role as parents in your child's sacramental preparation is invaluable. Please take seriously your commitment to engage, form and lead by example your child in their faith life.

Confirmation Preparation for Children and Teenagers

(For Children Who Have Received First Eucharist)

Please note that your family must participate in our Family Catechesis program for at least a year before your child begins immediate preparation for any sacrament.

If your child has already received his or her First Eucharist, we invite you to two of the family retreat days: the one in the fall that focuses on the link between baptism and confirmation, and one in the spring that focuses on the gifts of the Holy Spirit and includes a rehearsal for the liturgy.

You will receive periodic updates on ways to help your child prepare for this sacrament throughout the year.

The sacrament of confirmation is celebrated during Mass, usually in the spring during the Easter season, and will take place during the same liturgy as those who are also receiving their First Eucharist.