The day of First Holy Communion is unique in the life of every child. With a heart full of emotion and accompanied by parents, relatives, and friends, the child comes to church dressed for celebration, being – for one day – at the center of the community’s attention. It is the moment when, for the first time, they receive Jesus into their soul, in a day that will forever remain written in light in the diary of their childhood.

Such a moment of grace was experienced by the Caransebeș community on Sunday, June 15, when 12 children received Jesus for the first time in Holy Communion. For the adults, it was a heartfelt return to old memories. For the children, a landmark day on their journey of faith.

The spiritual preparation culminated on Saturday when, with hearts full of emotion and hope, the children approached for the first time the Sacrament of Confession – that personal and mysterious encounter with God’s mercy.

On Sunday morning, to the sound of bells, the children processed toward the altar, eager to live the sacred moment of encounter with Jesus. During the Holy Mass, their pure voices lifted in song:
“Only to You I want to give my heart! Beside You, oh Jesus, may I always remain!”
– a refrain that expresses their sincere desire to remain united with Christ for life.

After the homily, holding lit candles, the children solemnly renewed the promises made at their Baptism by their parents and godparents – a profound moment highlighting the living connection between Baptism and the Eucharist. At the end of the celebration, each child received a symbolic keepsake to remind them of the commitments made on this special day. Together with their families, they continued the celebration in a spirit of communion, joy, and gratitude.

We wish the 12 children to preserve the joy of a pure heart, the friendship of Jesus throughout their childhood, and the living desire to receive Him as often as possible in Holy Communion – this precious and divine gift of His love. We assure them of the prayers of the entire community, which accompanies them with love and hope.

Written by Sr. M. Lydia Fecheta FCJM