The weather was perfect, the church was beautifully decorated, and the 31 children finely dressed for the celebration of their First Holy Communion. It is difficult to put into words what a wonderful celebration we had, prepared by so many people, and closely involving the First Communion children themselves. We had over 600 people at Mass (I counted the chairs and did the maths just to be sure!); the Music Group led the singing, and in one memorable moment, the children sang the Alleluias of the Gospel Acclamation waving yellow kerchiefs. The organ provided additional solemnity, and congregational singing was superb. Our celebration was a family celebration, a social occasion, but above all, a spiritual event, where we were united in faith with the children who were receiving the Lord in Holy Communion for the first time. It was a privilege and a joy to be there with them.

So, thank you to so many people: those who catechised the children over many weeks, those who arranged the flowers, saw to the catering in the after-Mass garden celebration, the Music Group, the Organist, who prepared the booklets, organised the candles and rosary beads, who arranged the sanctuary, did the considerable administration, ministers of the Word and of Holy Communion (the first time we have needed 9 Ministers at one Mass), altar servers… and the many others who played their roles on Sunday.

We will post photos as and when we receive them.

One comment received reads ‘Thank you to a truly remarkable First Communion Mass! So very special indeed. I didn’t have a chance to thank you each in person following today’s mass. Several American families were speaking in the garden afterward and we all agreed nothing of this caliber occurs stateside. A true blessing you’ve given to our families and children here as we live as ex-pats.’

Another comment: ‘This must be as good as it gets; congratulations on a fantastic First Communion Mass and a record crowd…’

Read the story in the Chronicle: http://www.chronicle.lu/categorieslivingreligion/item/7293-international-parish-first-holy-communion

Again, many, many thanks to all. Fr Ed