First Reconciliation

Children in the second-year of religious formation are considered at the age of discretion (around 7 years old) by the Catholic Church. According to the policy guidelines set forth by the Diocese of Pittsburgh, "...before coming to eucharistic communion, these young candidates are to celebrate sacramental confession." Therefore, children attending faith formation classes at St. Benedict the Abbot Parish, as well as children enrolled in Catholic schools, will begin preparation for the sacrament of Reconciliation. While class attendance and participation are vital in sacramental catechesis, parents must recognize the unique role they share in the Christian formation of their children.

Please keep in mind that we will need the baptismal certificate of any second grade student not baptized at St. Benedict the Abbot Parish. If you do not have a copy, simply call the parish where you child was baptized and request that they send you a copy. The baptismal parish may require a letter from you stating your request so it would be a good idea to start this process now.