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Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney gathered with first communicants from around the Paterson Diocese and their families for an afternoon of catechesis, adoration, and celebration on June 1. The event was held at St. Peter the Apostle Church in Parsippany. The diocesan Office of Catechesis and Faith Formation, along with the Office of Worship, coordinated the event, which was attended by the first communicants representing nearly all the parishes in the diocese. They were dressed in their first Holy Communion attire for an afternoon that renewed the joy they experienced on their first Communion day. The day’s goal was to remind the children that receiving Jesus through the Eucharist is a great gift and that the Eucharist is essential in their lives. The event included a procession of the Blessed Sacrament, followed by adoration and Benediction. Many, touched by the solemnity and beauty of the liturgy, experienced a deeper love of the Eucharist. Bishop Sweeney offered catechesis on the Eucharist for the children in a question-and-answer format. The exchange produced a dialogue between the bishop and the children, who engaged him with thoughtful and sincere questions, creating an emotional moment. Children and families expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to gather and celebrate the significance of the Holy Eucharist in their daily lives. The inspiring presence and witness of the seminarians who assisted with the event encouraged not only the children but also some catechists to reflect more deeply on their vocations. Bishop Sweeney presented each child with a gift of a rosary to help them meditate on Jesus’ life and develop a relationship with him. Additionally, each first communicant received a prayer card. The event concluded with a reception, during which the bishop posed for pictures with each first communicant and their families. Beacon photos/Joe Gigli