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      Holy Communion 1974

      May and June are traditionally marked in our parishes by the joyful celebration of First Confession and Solemn Holy Communion of young parishioners. Archival photographs from 1974 capture these meaningful moments in the parishes of St. John the Baptist in Whippany, St. Paul in Ramsey, and St. Josaphat in Trenton (NJ); St. Nicholas, Annunciation of the BVM, and Christ the King in Philadelphia; and Holy Spirit in Chester (PA). These photos were published in the Archeparchial newspaper The Way.

      In our tradition, the Eucharist is one of the sacraments of initiation, given to children along with Baptism and Chrismation. However, in past decades, often due to Latinization, children did not receive the Eucharist until they reached a certain age. Today, our Church encourages parents to bring their children to Communion so they may receive the Bread of Life from an early age. Therefore, we now celebrate not only the first but also the solemn Holy Communion and the first Confession. 

      Perhaps you or your relatives recognize yourselves in these photos.

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