There really isn’t one standard. What each person knows or should know is based on the age at which the sacrament is received. For Confirmation, in the Latin Rite, this can be anywhere from infancy to adulthood, with the default being about 7 years of age. Obviously, an infant would not be expected to know anything, while an adult should have a thorough knowledge of the faith. As far as Communion, in the Latin Rite the standard is that a person should know that the Eucharist is Christ, and be able to differentiate between Holy Communion and ordinary bread. As we grow in faith and maturity, we should know and understand more.What are the essential things someone should know to be ready for first communion and then what else by the time of confirmation?
I’m trying to figure out what basic things exactly I’m deficient in currently. I know there are gaps in my knowledge.
The early church used to give communion and confirmation to infants and the Eastern Churches still do so. One could argue that there is nothing essential to know.What are the essential things someone should know to be ready for first communion and then what else by the time of confirmation?
You could read the classic book The Faith Explained by Leo Tresse. *ISBN: *978-07270-2-7What are the essential things someone should know to be ready for first communion and then what else by the time of confirmation?
I’m trying to figure out what basic things exactly I’m deficient in currently. I know there are gaps in my knowledge.
Tim beat me to this answer. The Sacraments are a gift from God. We definitely do not earn them. Knowing the faith behind them is good, but not necessary to receive the graces they bestow.The early church used to give communion and confirmation to infants and the Eastern Churches still do so. One could argue that there is nothing essential to know.
In practice the parents would make a profession of faith on behalf of the child. You should know and believe the creed.
-Tim-
Peter comes to mind…Tim beat me to this answer. The Sacraments are a gift from God. We definitely do not earn them. Knowing the faith behind them is good, but not necessary to receive the graces they bestow.
Well perhaps I would’ve been better using “gaps in my **understanding”Peter comes to mind…
***Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” ***(John 6:68-69)
Peter didn’t understand but he had faith. All that is necessary is to have faith. Everything else will follow.
People nowadays confuse knowledge with faith.
-Tim-
Oh not to worry I’m working with a priest weekly and we’re using the Baltimore Catechism #3. I also use Blessed Be God for my prayer book, such a nice book.If you’re looking to fill in gaps, why not get a simple Catechism and study it? And perhaps a book of traditional Catholic prayers.