Contact Information
Annie Zeets, dbqwcym@dbqarch.org
Waterloo Catholic Faith Formation Office. 319-233-0498
Children need to celebrate their First Reconciliation prior to First Communion. Second graders prepare for First Reconciliation in the fall, and for First Communion in the second semester.
Parent Meetings
Letters to families of 2nd graders will be mailed in late-August or sent home from St. Edward School. Included will be dates for Parent Information meetings about preparation for First Sacraments - and First Reconciliation in particular - that will be held in early October. Families that do not receive an information letter in the mail by early September should contact Annie Zeets.
Information about immediate preparation for First Communion will be sent to parents in January. Choose to attend one of these parent information meetings:
* If you cannot attend one of the parent meetings, contact Annie Zeets.
Preparation Program Format and Fees
The school/religious education and the parents work together for their child's immediate preparation for First Communion. More information about the schedule for lessons will be given at the parent meeting.
* For children participating in the home-schooling option for religious education, the immediate preparation for First Communion will be entirely a home study. Parents of these children will receive the student books and the support materials at the parent meeting.
Sacrament Retreats - Eucharist Retreat
A sacrament retreat will enhance learning through interactive experiences with the child and parent. All second grade students from the Waterloo Catholic parishes who are preparing for First Communion will attend a Eucharist Retreat. Parents are required to attend with their children. Sign up's for times will be sent out in February. Dates and times are below:
Rehearsals and First Communion Photos
Attend the rehearsal at the Parish your child will be receiving their First Communion.
Rehearsal schedule:
A professional photographer will be on hand to take large group and individual photos at the rehearsals. Please have your child come in their First Communion attire.
First Communion Dress Code
Children should wear their "Sunday best". Slacks and dress shirt, tie or vest/sweater are appropriate for boys; some boys wear a suit. A modest dress is appropriate for girls. White dresses are common, but not required; a veil may be worn, but it is not required.
General Requirements for First Communion
• If your child is not baptized or has not celebrated Reconciliation, contact Julie Niemeyer
• If your child was not baptized in one of the Waterloo parishes, you will need to provide a copy of the child's Baptism Certificate.