Preparation for First Penance and First Communion are two related but distinct programs for baptized children who are at least in the second grade. Church law requires that children ordinarily celebrate their first confession right after completing the Penance program and before beginning the First Communion program. There are circumstances under which a child who has not yet celebrated penance may be prepared for and receive their first communion, but only after consultation between parents and pastor. These programs are for children who have been and who will continue to be active participants in our religious education program, and who have been and will continue to be faithful participants in Sunday Mass.