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.

Preparation for confirmation and First Eucharist takes place primarily within the regular R.E. classes 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 a confirmation journal as well as a First Eucharist book and Family Guide. 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 R.E. 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 Guide will assist you in this. It provides background information as well as ideas for activities you can do as a family.

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)

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.

Each child will also receive a journal, and you will receive periodic communication on ways to help your child use this journal in his or her preparation.

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.