Przygotowanie do Pierwszej Komunii świętej w życiu Kościoła partykularnego

Abstract

The documents of local Synods in Poland describe the methods of the preparing for First Holy Communion in the particular Church. The analysis of documents of Synods in 15 dioceses (1967-1994) shows this preparing as an introduction to full participation in the Mass. There is a practice of early Communion in pre-school age in some dioceses, but only in deeply believers’ families. The Synods recommended this practice. The preparation in the school and in the parish lasts two or three years. Themes are based on the effects of baptism. The candidates are introduced in gestures, singings, prayers in the special celebrations once in the month. In some groups of children this process requires individual or small group meetings. That concerns children from divorced or non-sacramental marriages, lapsed families and the sick or disabled ones. The cooperation of parents, guardians, siblings and godparents is expected in the preparation process. The testimony of one’s life is very important factor here. There are some special sermons preached for them. Some of these teachings are delivered by the parents themselves. The parents also participate in the penitential celebration and lead the prayer in the family at the eve of the First Communion day.