Erin Fox
Preparing for your first Holy Communion and your Confirmation are two of the most exciting occasions growing up. Choosing an outfit to wear, celebrating with your family and class mates, and receiving cards and gifts can be what people look forward to most about the day. They are important occasions and deserve a big celebration but in the hype of things, it can be easy to forget the real importance and true meaning of these sacraments.
When you make your first Holy Communion, usually this is the time when you receive your first pair of rosary beads and a prayer book. Most of all you learn why this sacrament is so important. Making your first Holy Communion is receiving Christ in the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
To receive the Body of Christ you must first be free from sin, which is why it is important to go to confessions regularly. Before the big day arrives, usually you and your classmates will attend your first Confession.
Receiving Holy Communion creates a more intimate relationship between us and Jesus, and receiving it regularly helps us better to lead a Holy Life. After receiving Communion it is important to spend time adoring Jesus by saying a private prayer.
After making your first Holy Communion, the next sacrament you take is Confirmation. This is an equally important celebration. When you receive this sacrament, from then onwards you are seen as an adult in the eyes of the Church. Choosing a Confirmation name and a sponsor are big parts of the preparation process.
When adopting a saintís name donít pick one at random. Research some saints and when you choose one, think about why you are choosing them and how they would influence you. It can be off putting if several of your classmates have selected the same name but everyone will take their own special meaning from the same name.
Picking a sponsor is equally important and there is much to consider when choosing, as your sponsor will guide and support you in your preparation. Select a close family member, a godparent, or someone whose commitment to their faith inspires you. You should also take into consideration whether or not your potential sponsor will remain in your life to guide you in your faith.
When you pick a saint name, you will have that for life so you should think from that viewpoint when selecting a sponsor; they are more than someone who supports you on your Confirmation Day.
