Traditional Italian Celebration for a First Communion

For Catholics, a child's first Communion is a rite of passage. Catholicism is expressed differently in cultures around the world, and Italian Catholics, in particular, view a child's first Communion as both a holy and a cultural event.

Background

• A first Communion is when a Catholic child takes the host, which in the Catholic faith is the body and blood of Jesus Christ.

Perspective

• Italy is a heavily Catholic country because of its close connection with Vatican City and long history with the Catholic Church.

Celebration

• The first-Communion gathering celebrates the growth of the child into a participating member of the Catholic Church. Relatives offer gifts and food to the child. For parents, the day is a momentous event that signifies a milestone in their child's development.

Fashion

• Although most first Communions feature proper dress, Italian first-Communion celebrations utilize elaborate dresses and suits for children. Girls wear first-Communion gowns made of silk and place veils over their heads. Boys wear typical black suit designs with ties.

Gift Ideas

• Conventional gift ideas usually include religious items important in the Catholic Church. Common gifts given at an Italian first Communion may include a personal copy of the Bible, rosaries, or a religious statue. Often, family heirlooms from past first Communions are given to the child.

Cuisine

• At many Italian first-Communion parties, pizzelle might be served. Pizzelle is a sweet waffle cookie usually with a vanilla flavor. The treat is made especially for the children.