Home Life Passages First Communion



“Take and eat in remembrance of me…”

 

Thank you for your interest in the sacrament of Holy Communion. For Lutherans Holy Communion is a reminder of the last meal shared by Jesus and his disciples before Jesus died and a physical means of experiencing God’s grace through which the gifts of forgiveness, life and salvation come to us.

Holy Communion is a gift for all of God’s children, but we recognize that the gift is better understood at a more mature age. As a result, St John’s invites children fifth grade and older to participate in a series of First Communion classes so that they can better understand and enjoy the richness of the sacrament. Instruction begins each fall.

The process we follow for instruction highlights the fact that all are on a journey of faith, growing in maturity and passion for Christ. We believe that it is the parent’s primary responsibility to teach their child about the faith and that the church’s responsibility is to help lead, guide and support the family along that journey.

With that in mind, we have included the following elements in our first communion instruction:

Basics for Parents. Classes for parents are held during the Sunday School hour. The class reviews the basics of Holy Communion and gives parents guidance in how to lead instruction at home.

Home-based instruction. A home based study follows with a particular subject to be studied and discussed each week.  Attendance at worship every week during that instruction period is encouraged, as it creates a heightened sense of anticipation. 

Basics for Children. Classes for children are held during the Sunday School hour. The classes complement what they have been learning at home. 

Family Day. Entire families learn together through video, discussion and small group activities.  The children will create personalized chalices which they will use on First Communion Sunday.

Creating a special memory. Parents are encouraged to make the day of First Communion a special day by inviting friends and family, preparing a special meal, or giving a gift.  This is truly a day of celebration and families are encouraged to “make it a big deal.”

A congregational celebration. First communion is a celebration for the entire congregation. Communicants will be recognized and gifts will be shared as a way of highlighting this important Stepping Stone of faith.  

Fall 2009 First Communion classes begin October 25. First Communion Sunday will be celebrated on November 22. For more information, please contact the church office.