First Communicants

Archbishop Gregory would like to invite every first communicant to celebrate with him at the Eucharistic Congress.

The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with a procession of representatives from churches and ministries in the Archdiocese. The First Communicants are invited to take part in both this procession and in the procession before mass in the afternoon.  This procession is followed by a special time of Adoration and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Presentations by inspiring speakers will then continue into the afternoon. Individual tracks will be available for adults – in English, Spanish and Vietnamese – and for teens and children (kindergarten through fifth grade).  There will also be a special track for the deaf.

The Kid Track will include music, crafts and activities that will teach your child more about Jesus and the Catholic faith. Lunch is included. If you have older children, they are invited to attend the Teen Track.

The First Communicants who would like to participate in the morning procession should gather in their First Communion dresses and suits in the hallway behind the Spanish Suites before the morning procession. We will line up beginning at 8:00am. In case of rain, there will not be an opportunity to take part in the morning procession. However, First Communicants and their parents will be seated in the reserved section in front of the music area for the morning liturgy.

The First Communicants who plan to participate in the opening procession of the afternoon Mass will line up in their First Communion dresses and suits at 4:30pm in the hallway behind the Spanish Suites. Parents and family will process behind the First Communicants at both liturgies, and will be seated in the reserved section immediately behind them. There will be a volunteer located in that area who will have further instructions for you.

Many have said that the opening procession of First Communicants is a special moment as it is a beautiful reminder to all present of our own First Holy Communion. Most importantly, it is an opportunity for our children to step out in faith and feel the warmth and congratulations of the church community.

More Information

If you have any questions, please contact Meaghan Schroeder at mschroeder@archatl.com or 404.920.6800.