How Much Money to Give For First Communion (Updated)

Last Updated on April 21, 2024 by Kimberlee Johnson

Often, as parents, godparents, or close friends of the family, we regularly deal with a common dilemma: figuring out the appropriate amount of money to present as a gift for a child’s First Communion.

It’s a special occasion that calls for an appropriate gesture, and finding the right amount can be a bit confusing.

Having been through this very situation myself, I can confidently share some insights that will help you navigate the delicate balance between generosity and practicality.

So, let’s explore the unspoken rules of First Communion gift-giving and offer practical guidance to help you decide on the right amount.

Table of Contents

How Much Money To Give For A Child’s First Communion?

The amount of money to give for a child’s first communion can vary on how close you are to the child. Some people give a small amount, like $20 or $50, while others may give more, like $200.

Ultimately, what matters most is the thought behind the gift, which shows encouragement and good wishes for the child as they start their spiritual journey.

Is It Customary To Give Gifts At First Communion?

Certainly. It’s a tradition to give gifts at first communion. The choice of gifts can vary, depending on personal preferences and cultural customs.

“When we receive Holy Communion, we experience something extraordinary – a joy, a fragrance, a well-being that thrills the whole body and causes it to exalt.”
John Vianney, French Priest

Some common gift ideas include religious items like rosaries, prayer books, or crosses, as well as personalized keepsakes such as engraved jewelry or picture frames.

Things To Consider

Budget/Income

When giving a first communion gift, the first thing you must consider is your budget and income. Checking your income and budget helps you ensure that you don’t spend the money you do not have [1].

Depending on your budget, you can give between $20 – $50; however, you should consider other factors when giving first communion gifts.

In addition, if you have allocated more money to give for first communion, you can also check out different personalized confirmation gift ideas aside from giving cash.

The silver cross keepsake box and silver cross keepsake snowglobe are included in the communion gift ideas that you can give on this occasion.

Read: What Should You Do If Someone Asks For A Gift Back?

The Venue/Location

The money you will give for a first communion can be dependent on the venue or location of the party it will be held. An acceptable first communion gift is between $20 – $30.

Still, for parties celebrated at a restaurant, you can consider the cost of the food when deciding how much you should give for first communion.

Read: Amount To Give Priest For House Blessing

How Well You Know Them

Acquaintance’s Child

If the first communicant is your acquaintance’s child, the appropriate amount of cash gift for such an important event is $20 – $30. While the first communion is such a special day, it is important not to go overboard.

The amount you will be giving is already a thoughtful gesture, given your relationship with the child celebrating this traditional symbol. But is it rude to give money as a gift?

Friend’s Child

If you are invited to your friend’s child’s first communion celebration, a monetary gift amounting to $20 – $40 can be ideal. Since you are family friends and not directly related to the first communicant, it would be a decent amount to give.

A family friend may not be expected to gift money, but it can be a great first communion gift option.

Distant Relative’s Child

On the first communion of a distant relative’s child, people normally give a small amount of cash as a first communion gift. A distant relative can send $40 – $60 of cash gifts to their relatives who will receive communion.

“Remember, the act of giving is about creating lasting memories and fostering a sense of generosity in young hearts, rather than simply focusing on the dollar amount.”
Howkapow Gift Site

However, if you are a gift-giver, you can give a religious-themed gift that has religious significance. A Locking Heirloom Communion and Confirmation Keepsake Box can be an appropriate gift.

Read: How To Politely Ask For Money Instead of Gifts

Your Godson or Goddaughter

If you are not related to someone who will receive First Communion, it would be an excellent idea to give a gift and show generosity to your Godson or Goddaughter. You can give $40 – $50 and send them a nice religious gift like rosary beads that symbolize the Catholic faith.

Sibling’s Child

Close relatives are expected to give bigger cash presents than distant relatives and friends. Family members and extended family who observe and celebrate a scripture communion will more likely give cash gifts between $80 – $100.

In addition, aside from cash, you can include appropriate gifts like a guardian angel visor clip, holy bibles, or photo frames where they can put photos of their first communion.

Your Son or Daughter

If your son or daughter receives his or her first communion, giving a higher amount will be the primary expectation. You can give your son or daughter $100 – $300 as communion gifts that they can deposit in their savings account.

Close family members can also give presents that will last throughout the recipient’s life, like Christ’s wood keepsake box, confirmation keepsake box, and sacrament wooden cross.

Grandson or Granddaughter

Grandparents are more likely to give money as a gift to their grandsons and granddaughters on a special day like the first communion. Any amount between $100 – $200 will be an appropriate gift to mark the special day.

The money the kids will receive can be deposited in a savings bond or account that they can use for the future.

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FAQS

Can you give money for Holy Communion?

Yes, you can give money for Holy Communion. If you are a friend or distant relative, the average amount you can give is twenty-five dollars, but it can be higher if you are a close family member.

How do you congratulate someone on their First Communion?

You can congratulate someone on their first communion by gift-giving. You can send gifts, write congratulatory letters or give cards with non-religious messages. In addition, you can greet them personally after a Sunday mass and wish them everlasting happiness.

How long does the First Communion ceremony last?

On average, a First Communion ceremony typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes, but it’s best to check with the specific church or parish for an accurate estimate of the ceremony duration.

Check out these outfit ideas you can wear to a first communion here.

So, How Much Should You Give For First Communion?

The first communion is part of the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic Church [2], where catholic children ages seven to thirteen start to practice receiving holy communion. Since communion marks an important step in religious life, preparing presents to celebrate the occasion can be great.

While there are no rules on how much money you should give for first communion, following our guide above can bring you to the safe side. While others prefer sending material presents on this occasion, money is a universal present that can be used even later.

References:

https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/1109/6-reasons-why-you-need-a-budget.aspx
https://www.britannica.com/list/the-seven-sacraments-of-the-roman-catholic-church

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Kimberlee Johnson

Kimberlee Johnson is a preschool teacher and a mom of 3. She puts a lot of thought into gift-buying and gift-giving as she believes that each gift should tell a story. She enjoys scrapbooking and watching the History Channel. Learn more about us here or you can email us [email protected].