What to Write in a First Communion Card
From a godparent
“To my wonderful godchild on your First Holy Communion. I was so proud to stand beside you at your baptism, and I'm even prouder today. Love always.”
“Your special day is finally here! Being your godparent is one of my favourite jobs. Wishing you every blessing today and always.”
“Congratulations on your First Communion. Have the best day, and save me a slice of cake!”
From a grandparent
“To our precious grandchild on your First Holy Communion. We are so proud of the lovely person you are. May God bless you today and always. All our love, Nana and Grandad.”
“What a special day! Watching you grow up is one of the great joys of our lives. Congratulations, love.”
“Wishing you a day full of happiness and a lifetime of blessings. We love you to the moon and back.”
From an aunt or uncle
“Congratulations on your First Communion! You looked amazing today and we're so proud of you.”
“To our favourite niece / nephew (don't tell the others!) — have a brilliant day. Lots of love.”
“Wishing you a magical Communion day filled with family, fun and far too many treats.”
From a family friend or neighbour
“Congratulations on your First Holy Communion. Wishing you a lovely day with your family.”
“Thinking of you on your big day. Enjoy every minute!”
“Congratulations! We hope your Communion day is everything you hoped for.”
From parents
“To our amazing girl / boy on your First Holy Communion. We are so proud of you today and every day. Love, Mam and Dad.”
“Today you took a big step, and you did it beautifully. We love you more than words can say.”
Short messages
“Congratulations on your First Holy Communion!”
“Wishing you a blessed and happy Communion day.”
“So proud of you today. Enjoy your big day!”
“Congratulations and God bless.”
Not religious
“Congratulations on your big day! Have the best time celebrating with everyone who loves you.”
“Hope your special day is full of fun, family and lots of cake.”
Funny
“Congratulations! Remember: the money is for your piggy bank, not the ice-cream van. (Maybe a little bit for the ice-cream van.)”
“Big day, big dress / suit, big smile. Even bigger party. Enjoy it!”
As Gaeilge
“Comhghairdeas ar do Chéad Chomaoineach!”
(Congratulations on your First Communion!)
“Beannachtaí Dé ort ar do lá speisialta.”
(God's blessings on you on your special day.)
“Lá iontach agat!”
(Have a wonderful day!)
Not sure how much to put in the card? Use our calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What should I write in a Communion card?
Keep it warm and personal: congratulate them on their big day, say how proud you are and sign off with love. A heartfelt card means more than the amount.
How much money should I put in a Communion card?
Godparents typically give €50–€100; two-thirds of adults give a godchild €50 or more. For a family friend's child, €20 is the most common amount (An Post, 2025). Use our calculator for a guide that fits you.
Can I write a Communion card message in Irish?
Yes. "Comhghairdeas ar do Chéad Chomaoineach!" means "Congratulations on your First Communion!"
Do I have to put money in a Communion card?
No. A card and a kind message are always appropriate; about 6% of people in a 2026 reader poll said they don't give money at all (TheJournal.ie, 2026).
Keep planning
Sources
- 66% of Irish adults give €50 or more to a godchild for a Communion or Confirmation. An Post Money research by Empathy Research, March 2025
- For a family friend's child, €20 is the most common amount: 42% choose it for a Communion and 37% for a Confirmation. (An Post Money research by Empathy Research, March 2025)
- Reader poll, April 2026 (16,700+ votes, not a scientific sample): €50 was the most common answer (about 33%); about 30% said "depends on my relationship"; about 19% said €20 or less; about 11% said €50–€100; about 2% said over €100; about 6% don't give money. TheJournal.ie Daily Poll, 28 April 2026