First Communion Classes
for children during Lent

In the last years, there has been a good bit of confusion over when a child should start taking communion. Up until the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, a person was not allowed to receive Holy Communion until they were confirmed. With the advent of the ‘new’ prayerbook, that rule was revoked on the grounds that the only two essential (Dominical) sacraments are Baptism and Eucharist- and if a person had to be confirmed to receive Holy Communion, then Confirmation was thereby also essential.

Now-a-days, there are a variety of practices with regard to children and the reception of Holy Communion. Some parents still have their children wait until Confirmation, and other parents allow thier children to receive as soon as they express a desire, and other don’t really know what to do. So, to try and help with that and to insure our children are properly educated, the parish is offering to take the children through a process known as “First Communion” classes so the child will know what they are doing.

St. John’s is going to offer these classes on Wednesday night’s during Lent, from 5:30-6:00pm (during the Stations of the Cross and before dinner).

There is no particular age requirement (generally 5-7 is considered the age a child obtains the ability to reason) but the child should:

* be of an intellect to commit ‘personal sin’- to know right from wrong and willing do so along with the consequences and have the ability to reflect on actions.
* have a desire to receive Holy Communion
* have parents willing to discuss Communion with them
* be ready to more deeply explore the Christian faith and practice.

Regardless of family practice, it is extremely important children learn what is required of them for the proper reception of Holy Communion and the worship of Our Lord in general.

If you have a child you would like to enroll in these classes, please fill out this form, and if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Fr. Jeff.

2 thoughts on “First Communion Classes”

  1. Like!! I blog quite often and I genuinely thank you for your information. The article has truly peaked my interest.

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