The following is a letter from Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC, Bishop of Peoria.

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As part of our diocesan celebration for the Year of Faith, I am inviting all the children of the Diocese of Peoria who have received First Holy Communion in their parishes during 2013 to a special Mass of Thanksgiving in their honor. Please join me at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, 607 N.E. Madison Avenue, Peoria, on Saturday, June 1, 2013, at 4 p.m.

First Communicants are also invited to wear their Communion dresses, veils, suits, etc. Due to some other celebrations in the cathedral earlier that day, seating for this event will begin at 3 p.m. Please do not plan to arrive any earlier.

The celebration of First Communion truly becomes a family event, touching the lives of siblings, parents, grandparents and the larger family of the Church. It is my hope that all of you will join me, together with other diocesan families, to give thanks for this gift of Jesus in the Most Holy Eucharist.

As your bishop, let me join you in thanking God for the gift of your First Holy Communion! I am truly filled with “fatherly” joy with you and for you. I look forward to celebrating with you at the cathedral.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Daniel R. Jenky, CSC
Bishop of Peoria