The Eucharist is "the source and summit of the Christian life". The other sacraments, and indeed all ecclesiastical ministries and works of the apostolate, are bound up with the Eucharist and are oriented toward it. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself, our Pasch." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, article 1324)

Sacramental preparation at Christ the Redeemer is typically a two-year process that involves enrollment in Religious Education and participation in group meetings for adults.
Children who have met these requirements prepare to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation followed by the celebration of First Eucharist (also called First Holy Communion). The time of celebrating "First" Reconciliation may vary during the year, but First Eucharist celebrations for for English speaking families are typically celebrated the first Saturday in May and Spanish speaking families celebrate First Eucharist on the second Saturday in May.

For more information about sacramental preparation, please call the RE Office at 703-430-0811.