First Holy Communion

"Why do Catholics give Communion to young children?"

3 Scripture passages2 objections answered2 Church Father quotes

The Short Answer

First Holy Communion is a child's first reception of the Eucharist, typically around age seven—the 'age of reason.' Preparation includes learning about the Real Presence and making their first Confession.

Quick Overview

First Communion is one of the most memorable moments in a Catholic child's life—the first time they receive Jesus in the Eucharist. Typically around age seven, children prepare by learning about who Jesus is and that He is truly present in Communion. They also make their first Confession beforehand, learning to examine their conscience and receive forgiveness. It's a beautiful milestone: the child is now old enough to know right from wrong and to begin receiving Jesus regularly. Many families celebrate with special clothes, parties, and gifts—recognizing this spiritual milestone.

Biblical Evidence

What the Scriptures say

Matthew 19:14

"But Jesus said to them: Suffer the little children, and forbid them not to come to me: for the kingdom of heaven is for such."

Why This Matters

Jesus welcomes children—He doesn't turn them away. First Communion brings children to receive Jesus Himself.

John 6:53-54

"Except you eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, you shall not have life in you. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath everlasting life."

Why This Matters

Jesus says eating His flesh is necessary for eternal life. Children who can understand this truth shouldn't be kept from it.

1 Corinthians 11:28

"But let a man prove himself: and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of the chalice."

Why This Matters

Paul requires self-examination before Communion. Children at the age of reason can begin to do this.

What the Church Teaches

Official Catholic doctrine

Canon law states that children should receive Communion when they have 'sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so they understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity' (Canon 913). This typically means age seven.

Common Objections

Questions answered

Early Church Fathers

What the first Christians believed

Pope Pius X

1910 AD

"The age of discretion, both for Confession and for Holy Communion, is the time when a child begins to reason, that is about the seventh year."

— Quam Singulari

St. Augustine

c. 400 AD

"Even infants... are truly called faithful because they in some manner profess faith through the words of those who bring them."

— Letter 98

Godparents

General Absolution

Earn Points

Ready to claim your points!

Share This Teaching

Help others discover the biblical basis for Catholic beliefs