On Sunday, April 28, 2019, the Second Sunday of Easter, the Parish Cluster of Immaculate Conception, St. Joseph, and Holy Family celebrated as 14 students made their First Holy Communion.

Six Students, Two Parishes, and One Teacher

Three students from Immaculate Conception made their First Holy Communion on the Second Sunday of Easter, 2019.  They were Brody Pflughoeft, Ashtyn Robl, and Prycen Dody.  Three more made their First Holy Communion at Holy Family Parish in Odin:  Dexter Klug, Zoey Bogner, and Layton Hoffman.  All six were taught by Prycen’s mom, Tamara Dody. 

This was Tamara’s second year, teaching the second grade.  Previously, she taught the third grade for a year.  When Tamara was asked to work with the First Communion students, she readily said “yes” because she enjoys “preparing these kids during such an important year in their faith journey.” 

Tamara noted: “I enjoy seeing their curiosity grow, watching them really start to understand what faith and religion mean.”  Of course, as all Parish School of Religion (PSR) teachers know, it’s very challenging to form students in only a single hour of the week.  Tamara said, “It is hard for me to keep them interested and engaged while still imparting how meaningful and significant the sacraments are that they receive this year.” 

That is why parents must be the first teachers of their children in the ways of faith, something they do as much by example as by word.  As Tamara put it, “Everyone knows that kids watch what their parents do.  Don’t forget that this includes your faith. Pray with your kids, help teach them about their religion. Help your children learn that a deep faith can help bring peace, comfort, and meaning to their lives.”  Well said.  Thank you Tamara and congratulations students.  

Eight Students Receive Communion in Ellinwood

On April 28, eight St. Joseph Catholic School second graders made their First Holy Communion.  Those receiving the sacrament were Mallory Batchman, Ryder Heter, Treten Nuest, Avery Panning, Jake Schlessiger, Leah Steffan, Nicklaus Strecker, and Remi Thomas.  Each celebrant sported a fresh corsage or boutonniere created by Glenda Heinz, grandmother of Leah.  The students were so very excited to be receiving the body and blood of Jesus for the first time it was difficult for them to process into church slowly!  Following mass, Jake was heard to say, "Now I want to come to mass all the time!"  When you see these second graders at mass, be sure to tell them Congratulations!

 

May all of our students and their families always remain close to the Dear Lord in the Most Holy Eucharist.