CELEBRATE YOUR CHILD’S FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

It is a milestone in any young Catholic’s life and the big day is almost here once again.  After spending months in preparation, both parents and children are now ready for the next stage of their child’s spiritual journey. Yes, First Holy Communion – the formal admission to the community of the church.  When a child takes this giant step, it is a very special occasion.

With friends & family invited, many people mark this unique occasion with a party or meal that follows the official ceremony.  Some families choose to go out for a meal but you can save money by having a party at home or just limit the guests to close family.  The emphasis should be on the child and activities should be planned to account for your own child’s needs.  Most children just want to have special attention on the day, to have fun with their family and don’t expect an extravagant affair.  Bouncy castles can be popular but also traditional garden games can be just as much fun with the adults joining in!

THE OUTFITS

For Girls: Many of the traditional frills are considered outdated, so girls usually wear a plain white or ivory Communion dress with a veil or headdress made from fresh flowers.  Simplicity is the key and remember, this is not a wedding so dress your child appropriate to their age!  Check with the school as to what accessories are allowed in the church as they may not be allowed to wear gloves, bags etc. during the ceremony.

For Boys:  Some parents like to see their boys in suits but they may get more wear out of smart trousers and a more casual jacket with nice shirt and tie.  

The Gifts: In addition to monetary gifts, the traditional Communion presents tend to be a Rosary, a Saint’s Medallion or the First Communion prayer book.  Many schools discourage parents giving money to classmates of their child as this can cause and puts pressure on families who may not be in a position to participate.

More about Communion…..

Confession before Communion: It’s not obligatory, but Confession before First Communion is the usual procedure.  It is considered that children who have reached the age where they understand the difference between right and wrong, need also to understand forgiveness.

The Eucharist

The heart of the Eucharist or ‘Mass’ focuses on the Last Supper of Christ, when Jesus Christ asked his disciples to eat the bread and drink the wine, the sacraments which represent, respectively, his body and his blood.

First Holy Communion

By receiving Holy Communion at Mass a child is showing his or her desire to be united with Christ and a willingness to follow his teachings, 

First Communion is considered so important because this is where children start their spiritual journey as they share in the body and blood of Christ for the first time.  t the ceremony, each child receives Communion, normally in the form of a small round piece of bread placed by the Priest in the palms of their hands.

What age should my child take First Communion?

It is considered that when children reach the age of seven and eight they are more open to reason and are more likely to understand the story of Christ and the Trinity.

At The Schoolwear Centre in Galway and Tuam parents can select a bargain in Communion Dresses with dresses on sale for as low as €50, and €100.

Full price dresses start at €185. Dresses are just gorgeous and easy to wear, dresses that a little girl will wear again and again. Of course there are some more ornate dresses available also with matching accessories. With every full price dress purchased there will be a free pair of shoes. Deposits are taken and easy payment schemes can be put in place. Of course many parents are already using our Savings Plan and have enough saved for the whole outfit already just by saving a few euro every week. It’s not too late to open a savings account in The Schoolwear Centre for Communion wear or for Schoolwear or dancewear. Centrepoint, Liosban, Galway 091 755515 & Tuam 093 52240

Klassy Kids have a huge array of Communion wear for both girls and boys to suit all pockets and stock will be in the store from the end of December onwards. With a wide range of styles of dresses for the girls and everything from waist-coats, blazers to three piece suits for the boys, there is something to suit everyone.  Klassy Kids also has a stand-alone shop for teenagers called K2 – right next door that specialises in clothes for 10-16 year olds.  Clothes to suit children celebrating Confirmation will be in from mid January onwards. Whatever the occasion, you will find something at Klassy Kids and K2 for your children. Cross Street, Galway. Tel: 091 561004

Little Angels in Galway have something to suit any child for their very special First Holy Communion day; their wide range caters for every taste and budget. The exclusive range of Communion Dresses available at Little Angels can only be described as fabulous and the very experienced staff will help you find that perfect dress and accessories including bags, shoes, tiaras, gloves and much, much more!  Boys aren’t left out either with formal or casual collections to suit all.

 Little Angels also have a magnificent selection of outfits to suit children from 0-10 years including the NAME IT range, so you can kit your Communion child and the rest of the family out all at once and without any hassle.  Little Angels is certainly well worth a visit for their range of style and value for money. Don’t forget to shop early to have the widest choice as the complete collections are available in January and remember the 10% OFF Voucher attached to advert in this edition. Terryland Retail Park, Headford Road, Galway. Tel: 091-539722.  (Open 7 days)