Eucharist
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First Holy CommunionPreparing Hearts to Encounter Jesus in the Eucharist -
"I am the bread of life; whomever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst." John 6:35
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FIRST HOLY COMMUNION PREPARATIONA two-year journey for children ages 6 to 13
First Holy Communion preparation at St. Mark is more than a class—it is a two-year journey of faith for the whole family. Our program is inspired by the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a beautiful, internationally recognized approach to children’s faith formation that honors your child’s natural sense of wonder and helps them encounter Jesus in a personal way. Through Scripture, prayer, liturgy, hands-on materials, and parent participation, children are invited to fall in love with the Mass and prepare their hearts to receive Jesus in the Eucharist.Classes are offered two Sundays a month beginning Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Start your child’s faith journey here at St. Mark.
Register for Family Catechesis
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St. Mark Family CatechesisFirst Holy Communion is at the heart of our program, but the journey of our Catholic faith does not begin or end there. At St. Mark, we want children to “taste and see the goodness of the Lord” as they grow closer to Jesus at every age and stage.
Little Lambs
New for PreK/Kindergarten!
Our youngest children are introduced to Jesus as the Good Shepherd in a gentle, prayerful environment. Through Scripture, song, liturgical colors, the prayer table, and hands-on materials, children begin to discover that they are known, loved, and called by name.
This level offers a beautiful first foundation for faith, wonder, and belonging in the life of the Church.
First Communion Journey
First Holy Communion preparation at St. Mark is a two-year journey for children ages 6-13 and their families. Because parents are the primary educators of their children in the faith, they are invited to join monthly family formation sessions on the first Sunday of each month. Together, we explore the sacraments and discover practical ways to make faith a living part of family life.
Year 1 builds the foundation through the Good Shepherd, the parables, prayer, liturgical colors, the Church year, and the beauty of the Mass.
Year 2 prepares children more directly for First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion through Scripture, the parables of mercy, the Last Supper, the Mass, and the sacred objects of the altar.
This gives children time to prepare their hearts with wonder, reverence, and joy.
Growing in FaithWelcome back! If your child has already celebrated First Holy Communion, we invite your family to continue the journey. This new stage of faith formation gives older children a place to keep growing, ask bigger questions, take on more responsibility, and discover how their faith connects to everyday life.
Your child will deepen their understanding of the Mass, explore the Kingdom of God, and find meaningful ways to live their faith at home, at church, and in the world.
What Families Are Saying:
“I think we get caught up in our busy lives. The parent class helped us pause and learn to be more present for our kids.”
“I loved seeing my son’s interest grow and his excitement going to class.”
“Gracias por hacernos partícipes este año y por formar parte de la formación católica de mi hijo.”
Start your child’s faith journey here at St. Mark.
Register for Family Catechesis
Questions?
We'd love to hear from you. Please reach out to:Maryam Fitchew
Director of Family Catechesis
310-821-5058
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