The Eucharist is of such importance in our lives as faithful people that the Second Vatican Council stated that the Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life (Lumen Gentium, 11).”
The criteria for preparation and celebration is readiness (not age or grade level). Parents, in dialogue with the parish staff, have the right and responsibility to determine the readiness of their own child.
Immediate catechesis for the Sacrament of Eucharist is to be short and focused on the preparation for the celebration of the sacrament. The whole of the preparation process is to take no more than three months.
The goal of this catechesis is to help children participate in the Mass in a meaningful, reverent manner. The content of the preparation has at its core the format/structure of the Eucharistic celebration. Themes should include “sharing, listening, eating, conversing, giving, thanking and celebrating.