Holy Communion
The liturgical life of the Church revolves around the sacraments, with the Eucharist at the center (National Directory for Catechesis, #35). At Mass, we are fed by the Word and nourished by the Body and Blood of Christ. We believe that the Risen Jesus is truly and substantially present in the Eucharist. The priest, through the power of his ordination and the action of the Holy Spirit, transforms the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus. This is call transubstantiation.
The Catechism teaches that all Catholics who have been Baptized and received their First Holy Communion are welcome to receive Eucharist at Mass unless in a state of mortal sin.
Holy Communion is receiving the body and blood of Christ. Low-gluten hosts are available at Our Lady Queen of Peace by receiving Communion from the Pastor and informing him as you approach to receive. The blood of Christ at this time is not offered at Our Lady Queen of Peace.
Anyone who desires to receive Christ in Eucharistic communion must be in the state of grace. Anyone aware of having sinned mortally must not receive communion without having received absolution in the sacrament of penance. (CCC 1415)
The Church warmly recommends that the faithful receive Holy Communion when they participate in the celebration of the Eucharist; she obliges them to do so at least once a year. (CCC 1417)
Children - Grades 1 & 2
The parish prepares children to celebrate the Sacrament of Eucharist for the first time in second grade. The process of sacramental catechesis, which includes the parents, begins in the first-grade curriculum. Immediate preparation begins in the religious education, Parish School of Religion (PSR) classes, and homeschooling. The process culminates usually in May with the communal celebration of the Eucharist.
Children Grades 3 - 8
Parents who have children in grades three through eight who have not received their First Eucharist should contact the Pastor or the PSR Coordinator at Our Lady Queen of Peace.
Adults
Adults (including High School) who would like to begin receiving Eucharist should meet with the Pastor by calling the Parish Office.
Learn More About Holy Communion
For more information about Holy Communion visit the Archdiocese of St. Louis website.
Support OLQP
Create an account online to submit a one-time payment or schedule a reoccurring payment such as your Sunday offertory gift.
What is PSR?
Parish School of Religion (PSR) is a Catholic education course for K-8th grade students that prepares them for their sacraments.
What is RCIA?
Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults is a program for prospective converts to Catholic faith above the age of infant baptism.
