First Reconciliation and first Holy Communion celebrated

posted on July 9, 2012

by Shannon Grooms

Twelve joyful children celebrated the sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion on Friday, June 1 and Sunday, June 3, respectively. Both events were held at St. John’s Catholic Church in Allen, SD. Fr. Rick Abert, SJ was both the confessor and the Mass celebrant for the two ceremonies.

First Holy Communion is a powerful event in the lives of young Catholics, one that many remember for the rest of their lives. The journey to the sacramental celebrations was steeped in catechesis. Sr. Connie Schmidt, SSND, prepared the mother-and-daughter team of Donna and Anna Salomon as catechists, who in turn prepared the young candidates wishing to receive the sacraments. Sr. Connie met with the two catechists every Monday evening to prepare the lessons for the sacrament classes. Donna and Anna then met with the children at their home in Allen for the Friday afternoon sessions.

According to Sr. Connie, “Both Donna and Anna became more eager to explore and learn their faith as the weeks went by. In preparing to become teachers, they discovered their passion for their faith as students. The children were also very attentive and eager to learn and grow in their faith through the reception of the sacraments.”

The June 3 First Holy Communion was celebrated with many family members present in the church. After the Mass there was a meal in the church hall, which was enjoyed by everyone, along with music and dancing.

If you are interested learning more about any of the Catholic churches on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, contact Fr. Peter Klink at 605-867-5491 ext. 627.