First Penance & First Holy Communion

Saint Pope John Paul II taught that "The Eucharist builds the Church. The Church is formed and grows through the Eucharist and mature Catholics understand what they are giving and what they are given in the Eucharist.  They rightly hold the Eucharist as the 'gift par excellence.' In it, they are nourished and grow as Disciples."  It is truly the "source and summit of our faith" (Canon 897). Therefore, all our activities, ministries, Faith Formation and liturgical celebrations find as their center, the Holy Eucharist!  As Catholics, we are Eucharistic people and as such, participation in the celebration of the Lord's Last Supper each and every week are hallmarks of this sincerely lived out faith.

​​The celebrations of the Sacrament of First Penance (Confession, Reconciliation) and First Holy Communion here at Saint Joseph Church, are celebrated in the Second Grade (or at the age of 7).  It is required that two (2) years of continuous faith formation has taken place.  However, if this is not the case, please contact the Office of Faith Formation at: 973-383-8413 to discuss your particular situation.