Monday, May 25, 2009

First Communion

Yesterday we celebrated my younger son's First Communion. This is the Roman Catholic ceremony for a person's first reception of the sacrament of the eucharist, which is generally considered to be a commemoration of the Last Supper, the final meal that Jesus Christ shared with his disciples before his arrest and eventual crucifixion. The consecration of bread and a cup within the rite recalls the moment at the Last Supper when Jesus gave his disciples bread, saying, "This is my body", and wine, saying, "This is my blood.
Children in Italy receive this sacrament in fourth grade. My son is the little guy in the blue suit. Most families then continue the celebration by offering friends and family a meal. Those invited bring gifts for the child (a definite perk as far as the kids are concerned!).
We held a buffet in our backyard...today I'm exhausted. But, my son had a wonderful day, so it was all worth it!

6 comments:

VP said...

Happy to congratulate your son on his First Communion.
I remember my first jacket and tie on that day...

Eleonora Baldwin said...

Congratulations on your son's First Communion, Saretta! He looks so cute in his blue suit and his timid smile. They all look smashing, walking in the church with their little hands joined in prayer.

Now, put your feet up, take an aspirin and relax - the backyard buffet must've been quite a mission. You deserved your wonderful day, and so did your lovely boy.

Ciao and AUGURI!

Tinsie said...

Auguri! He looks serious and cute at the same time. Did he get lots of presents?

Lowell said...

Handsome young man and I'm sure an exciting day for him.

Hilda said...

Congratulations to your son, Saretta! The kids look so adorable all dressed up.

Same practice here — from the rite to the party and gifts. For those in Catholic schools, it's usually the school that organizes First Holy Communion for the entire grade level. I think the parishes appreciate that a lot.

Marie Reed said...

I remember my first communion so vividly! This brings back such nice memories! What a cutie he is!