First Communion?

Question

I am helping my boyfriend throw a First Communion party for his son. What's your thoughts on Cherubs as the theme. I am not catholic and I don't recall ever attending a Communion party so I don't know how it's suppose to go. There off the boat italians and the guest list is already at 80 (it's like a mini-wedding). I thought a theme would be nice (cherub invites, centerpieces, favors) but I don't know, he's now asking me if maybe I should change it. Any ideas?

Answer 1

Times are sure changing. A First Communion party!
In 1980, when I had my first communion, there were about 50 of us kids and there was a simple church reception afterwards with cake and punch.
I say cherubs are a darling idea for a party. Since this is a celebration for a pint-sized Catholic, I think it makes sense that the pint-sized angels are celebrating too.

Answer 2

First Communion is usually treated seriously, at least the church ceremony part is, it is a religious celebration. Hallmark, or your local printer would have some neat invitations that keep the spirit of the occasion, but not lose the joyousness. But then at the party, anything goes. Cherubs would be cute. Check out your local party stores for matching decorations, invites, etc. See what is available in your area before you chose.
Maybe boyfriend is afraid the older Italian, [and I would bet devout Catholic] family members would not think a cherub on the invitation was serious enough, that it might be disrespectful. So, if that is the case, choose a plain religious invite.
You could word the invites to be serious on the phrases that are about the church, and not so serious about the party after.

Answer 3

I married into a first generation Italian family - I understand where you are coming from here.

First, no cherubs. I love cherubs, but not for a communion, and especially not for a boy. They are too cute and because the First Communion is a HUGE HUGE deal to Catholics, the seriousness of this event is not well reflected in the cherub theme.

Stick with crucifixes, cross themes. Keep it simple. There are small decorations available at party stores, but to Italians, it isn't so much about the decorations as it is about the food and the special cake for the occasion. Make sure that cake comes from a good bakery, not the local grocery or from someplace like Costco.

Good luck!