The celebration of First Eucharist is a sacred and important moment on a long journey of faith development. Together with Baptism and Confirmation, it opens the door to full membership of the Christian community. At the ceremony, each child receives Holy Communion, normally in the form of a small round piece of bread placed by the Priest in the palms of their hands.

Most children receive their First Communion when they are seven or eight years of age because this is considered the age of reason. This means that most children are usually in second class in school when they make their First Holy Communion. In order to receive communion the recipient should be without sin and in a state of grace. Traditionally, therefore young Catholic children will make their first confession, i.e. the Sacrament of Reconciliation some days or weeks before receiving their First Holy Communion. The Sacrament of Baptism must also have been received before receiving the First Communion