Ryan's First Reconciliation

Having the important role of preparing Ryan for his First Reconciliation over the past few months has been such a special experience for both of us.  God's gift of forgiveness has always been significant in my own life, but seeing it through the eyes of my own child has been a beautiful lesson.  

Ryan had been looking forward to and counting down the days to his First Reconciliation for weeks.  When the day finally came he wanted to use the "You are Special Today" plate that we use on birthday, baptism and saint name feast days as well.  I would not have even thought about bringing out the plate, but I love that our little tradition has become so meaningful to him to want to continue it on this special sacrament celebration day!

Before the ceremony started Ryan asked if he could go to the Adoration Chapel at our church.  I love that on this special day Ryan knew that he wanted a moment alone with Jesus to pray!  It was a great way for my husband and I to have some special time with Ryan before this beautiful sacrament.  

Our parish had a little ceremony with the reading of the Prodigal Son from Luke Chapter 15.  Ryan was so excited to hear this story on this special day as it was a story that we read and discussed often during our preparations.  After the reading and a short reflection about 120 children were able to celebrate their first confession.  I thought that Ryan would be nervous but he kept saying "I am SO excited!" Look at this grin after his first confession!  He was beaming with grace and joy!  What a truly beautiful sacrament and gift from God. 

Afterwards Ryan choose to go out for cupcakes for a special treat!

As a little gift to remember the day, my husband and I got him a box of special "heroes" or Saints.  We want him to always remember the Communion of Saints and how they were all sinners, just like him, yet found ways to turn their lives to God.  The very next day following his first confession he was already planning on his next confession!