Camilla's First Holy Communion

This morning our granddaughter, Camilla, made her first Holy Communion at her family's parish church, St. Francis Xavier Church, in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Diane and I joined our daughter, our son-in-law, and Camilla's four brothers, and filled an entire pew. We were certainly privileged to attend this special Mass, which was celebrated by the pastor who preached a wonderful homily to the children. Camilla was also chosen to place the crown of flowers on Mary's statue just as Mass began.

After Mass we all joined the other first communicants and their families for a little celebratory gathering in the church hall. And then it was time to extend the celebration back at our daughter's house, a celebration that included a special cake in the form of a cross and a few gifts from close family and friends. Diane and I gave Camilla a rosary, blessed by Pope Benedict XVI, which we bought in Rome last November.

It was a glorious day, and Camilla was truly happy to have received our Lord for the first time in this very special way.