Photo Caption: This photo of Addisyn Wood preparing for First Communion was submitted by her mother, Nicole, who teaches second grade CCD at St. Mary of Lourdes Parish in Germantown Hills.

All children who received their First Communion in parishes around the Diocese of Peoria this spring — as well as their families and friends — have been invited by Bishop Daniel R. Jenky, CSC, to a Mass of Thanksgiving in their honor at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Peoria.

“The celebration of First Communion truly becomes a family event, touching the lives of siblings, parents, grandparents and the larger family of the Church,” said the bishop in a letter of invitation. “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.”

First Communicants are invited to wear their special dresses, veils, suits, etc. Seating will begin no earlier than 3 p.m. because of other cathedral celebrations that day.

“I am truly filled with ‘fatherly’ joy with you and for you,” the bishop told the First Communicants. “I look forward to celebrating with you at the cathedral.”