Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me." - Luke 22:19
The Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist
As Catholics, we believe that Jesus is substantially present—body, blood, soul, and divinity—in the Holy Eucharist.
This belief originates at the Last Supper, when our Lord instituted the sacrament of His Body and Blood under the appearances of bread and wine. By doing this, He keeps His sacrifice on the Cross alive throughout the ages.
When we receive Holy Communion during Mass, we are receiving the true Body and Blood of Christ, becoming united to Him, who is the source of life: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me and I in him" (John 6:56). Through this, our mortal and corruptible natures are transformed and given new life.
First Holy Communion Preparation
Sacramental preparation for First Holy Communion is offered to all eligible parishioners through our K–8 Faith Formation program. Children who are baptized and in the second grade are invited to prepare for and receive this sacrament.
"When you look at the crucifix, you understand how much Jesus loved you then. When you look at the Sacred Host, you understand how much Jesus loves you now." - St Teresa of Calcutta
Our Lord is truly present with us in the Holy Eucharist. He has never left us, so don't miss the opportunity to be truly present with Him! Come adore Jesus Christ exposed in the Blessed Sacrament every Tuesday at St. Anne Church, following the 8:00 AM Mass until Benediction at 6:15 PM. You are welcome to stay for a few minutes or a few hours.
For adults, First Holy Communion takes place as part of the Order of Christian Initiation for Adults (OCIA). Interested candidates should connect with the Parish Office to inquire at412-531-5964, or visit our OCIA program page.