When should my child take communion?
The concept of communion is not always easy to understand from the perspective of a child. The bible does not state an age of accountability or prescribed requirement to take communion. The only prerequisite is that the participant be a follower of Jesus.
We believe that the parents are the primary spiritual nurturers of their children. This means that each parent must determine for their own child if
- The child has given a convincing profession of faith in Jesus Christ
- The child is showing fruit and evidence of conversion through obedience and love for Jesus
- The child understands and can articulate the significance of communion
We would suggest never to rush communion. Waiting and holding off for understanding, maturity, significance, anticipation and meaningful memories can be a good thing for your child.
When your wisdom and discernment tells you that the time is right it would be recommended to set up a conversation with your child that covers the following:
· What is communion?
Start with Luke 22 and the story of the Last Supper. Talk about what Jesus was teaching his disciples and how we still remember Jesus’ broken body and shed blood.
Be sure to explain this is symbolic and not literal.
· Why do we take communion?
We take communion because Jesus instructed us to do so and because it is a way to remember and celebrate what He did for us.
· How do we take communion?
Every church does communion differently. Coach your child on the proper way to receive and partake the elements.
1 Corinthians 11 gives personal instructions and tells a believer to examine himself before taking communion.
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Other Resources:
“At Home” weekly from KidsBridge
“NBCC KidsBridge Parents” (Facebook group – request permission)
“Bible App for Kids” (free in the App store – from Life Church)
“Storybook Bible”
Message Notes Remember & Celebrate 5/28/17
Deuteronomy 6:4-9 NIV
New Bridge Vision
Making disciples who love God, love one another and make His love known.
The Hebrew ‘Shema’ Dt.6:4-5
*To hear...
1) Love God Dt.6:5-6
2) Love one another Dt.6:7a
• Time
Creating family discipleship time
• Moments Dt.6:7b
Capture family discipleship moments
• Milestones
Recognize and celebrate family discipleship milestones
3) Make His love known Dt.6:8-9
Modern day “phylacteries” (see Mt.23:5)