Children usually receive First Reconciliation (Confession) and First Eucharist (Communion) in the second grade, after having begun education in the sacraments the year before. However, these sacraments can be prepared for and received at any age after 7.

Children preparing to receive these sacraments should be enrolled in our parish Faith Formation program, a Catholic school, or an appropriate homeschool curriculum. To enroll your child in preparation, please visit our Children & Family Faith Formation program or contact our Coordinator of Religious Education, Catherine Gallerizzo Oyster, [email protected].

Catholic adults who would like to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist for the first time or adults who would like to learn more about becoming Catholic, should contact Olivia Crosby, Coordinator of RCIA, through the rectory at 301-424-5550.

About these Sacraments

The sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession or Penance, is one of the sacraments of healing, through which we express sorrow for our sins and receive God's forgiveness. First Reconciliation is received prior to receiving first Communion.

The Eucharist is the greatest of the sacraments of initiation and the “source and summit of the Christian life” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1324). When we receive the Eucharist, we receive Jesus himself under the appearance of bread and wine. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1374)