Children begin preparing for the Sacraments of First Reconciliation and First Holy Communion in first grade. This catechetical year provides for a child to receive adequate knowledge of the Catholic faith in order to experience and understand the sacraments they will be celebrating the following year.

In accordance with the policies of the Diocese of Trenton, children must celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation prior to the celebration of First Holy Communion. St. Paul Parish generally celebrates communal First Reconciliation services in the Fall of grade 2. First Holy Communion is celebrated during the Easter Season at special liturgies at the end of April or the beginning of May. Parents may also choose to celebrate their child's First Holy Communion at a regularly scheduled Sunday mass during Easter.

In addition to their learning in a catechetical setting (i.e., religious education program, catholic school, home schooling), children preparing for these sacraments are expected to participate in proximate preparation activities. This includes two Saturday retreats, one for each sacrament.