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"Not only does it [the Sacrament of Penance] free us from our sins but it also challenges us to have the same kind of compassion and forgiveness for those who sin against us. The Sacrament of Penance is God's gift to us so that any sin committed after Baptism can be forgiven. In confession we have the opportunity to repent and recover the grace of friendship with God (US Conference of Catholic Bishops)."
"Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.'" - John 6:35
It is highly recommended you attend one of two parent information meetings:
Sunday, August 30, 9:45 to 10:45 or
Wednesday, September 16, 6:30-7:30
Sacrament preparation classes are separate and in addition to regular religious education classes at the parish or in a Catholic school. First Sacrament classes take place on a weekday evening (class days and times are subject to change based on building and catechist availability).
This year we are excited to present a new program for First Sacrament preparation. We will be using Growing Up Catholic's Sacrament preparation. This program is very different in that both children and parents will be present at all sessions. You, the parents, will be working directly with your children to prepare them to receive Reconciliation and Communion.
All sessions are mandatory for both the children and parents.
We are exicted to bring you this program.
First Reconciliation:
Preparation takes place during the fall.
First Penance is TBD.
First Eucharist:
Preparation takes place during the spring.
1st Communion occurs over all three Masses on Mother's Day weekend.
Sacrament of First Penance & Eucharist Requirements
Sacrament of First Penance & Eucharist Requirements
Your family must be registered in the parish. If your family is not registered, please attend a New Parishioner gathering between Masses on the 3rd Sunday of August, September, or November.
The child must be in 3rd grade or older.
You must provide proof of Christian baptism. If baptized at St. John Neumann, please provide the month and year of baptism. If baptized at another church, provide a copy of the Baptismal Certificate with the registration form (If you need help locating the certificate, please let us know).
Register for religious education. A child must have participated in religious education the year prior (2nd grade) and the year of (3rd grade) First Sacrament preparation. If your child attends Catholic school, they do not need to register for religious education at the parish.
Complete the First Sacrament registration form.
Contact the Director of Religious Education at dre@sjnpowhatan.org with questions or for more information.
Reconciliation 2026-27
Reconciliation 2026-27
CHILDREN and PARENT Sessions:
September 30, 6:30-7:45
October 7, 6:30-7:45
October 21, 6:30-7:45
October 28, 6:30-7:45
November 4, 6:30-7:45
November 18, 6:30-7:45
CELEBRATION OF FIRST PENANCE
To Be Determined
First Eucharist 2026-27
First Eucharist 2026-27
CHILDREN and PARENT Sesssions:
February 24, 6:30-7:45
March 3, 6:30-7:45
March 17, 6:30-7:45
March 24, 6:30-7:45
April 7, 6:30-7:45
April 21, 6:30-7:45
April 28, 6:30-7:45
Rehearsal and Pictures
May 1, Pictures, By appointment.
May 2, Rehearsal, Sunday, after 11:00 Mass
FIRST COMMUNION CELEBRATION WEEKEND (Mothers Day weekend)
May 8-9, Sat/Sun , During Mass
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