In 1910, Pope Pius X issued the decree, “Quam Singulari”, which addressed the age of First Communion for Roman Catholic children.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quam_singulari
Clarifying traditions that had changed over centuries and varied between dioceses, the papal decree established the age of seven for First Communion – a time at which a child could understand the significance of consecrated bread.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Communion
The Rite of Confirmation, the personal avowal of Faith and the laying on of hands to receive Gifts of the Spirit, typically occurred around the age of 12.
Today, in some Roman Catholic dioceses, confirmation precedes First Communion.
While the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion can be administered whenever the bishop visits a parish, many celebrations occur on holy days or during special feasts of the Church.
Protestant practices regarding Confirmation and Communion varied widely among different denominations.
The references in this long preface reflects the evidence that the photograph memorializes a sacrament in the Roman Catholic Church.
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This photograph was made circa 1910, and it shows a boy with carefully-brushed hair standing with the emblems of the sacrament.
In his right hand, the boy holds the paschal candle.
The left hand holds a breviary (or prayer book) and a rosary.
Girls were typically dressed all in white for the First Communion; our boy is seen in a dark suit and sporting a white bow tie.
At his breast, a sprig of white blossoms indicates purity of heart and intention.
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Alas, the postcard photograph lacks any identification of the young man.
Without a studio mark or other indication of the location, it will be impossible to know more about this celebration.
Someone treasured the moment and preserved this memorial of this event.
One hopes that our new communicant found comfort, encouragement, and challenge in his life of Faith.
