What is Holy Communion?

Last week, the Faith Formation students continued their lesson on What We Do in Church, with a special focus on Holy Communion. The younger classes explored the events of the Last Supper, when Jesus, on the night before he died, shared his final Passover meal with his friends. During this meal, he spoke new words over the bread and wine, saying, "This is my Body; this is my Blood of the covenant, which will be shed for many." Jesus gave his whole self—his Body and Blood—at the Last Supper, instituting the Eucharist as a memorial of his death and Resurrection.
The children spent time reflecting on Jesus' words and discussing how we continue to celebrate this memorial every Sunday during church. They then practiced setting the model altar and learned about the preparation of the cruets and lavabo. As a creative activity, each student made a banner depicting symbols of Holy Communion to take home as a reminder of the day's lesson.

The older students in the Level III class enjoyed a special lesson on Holy Communion led by Mother Cameron. They discussed the different parts of the service and had the unique opportunity to see the high altar up close. Cameron led a discussion on the meaning of Holy Communion and how, as baptized members, they are invited to fully participate in this sacred sacrament.

The class also had a chance to see the aumbry, a small cabinet used for the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament. Cameron also showed them the piscina, a special sink that empties directly into the earth rather than a sewer. The piscina is used for the reverent disposal of consecrated wine from the Eucharist, blessed water from baptisms, and water used in washing sacred vessels.
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Cameron concluded the session by answering questions and encouraging students to continue deepening their understanding of the liturgy. She emphasized that their participation is not only welcome but a vital part of our community of faith.

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When is My Child Old Enough to Receive Communion?

​Any baptized person is welcome to receive Communion in the Episcopal Church—including children and even infants.
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When we gather for the Eucharist, we come together as a family to be fed with the spiritual food of Christ. Just as we nourish our children at the family table, we also welcome them to be nourished at God’s table.
In the Episcopal Church, as in the ancient Christian tradition, Baptism is the only requirement for receiving Communion. Through Baptism, a person is fully incorporated into the Body of Christ and welcomed to participate in the sacraments. No additional rite or requirement —such as First Communion, Confirmation, or reaching a certain age – is needed.

Faith is a lifelong journey, and we continually grow into our Baptismal vows, deepening our understanding of Christ’s real presence in the bread and wine. To support this journey, instruction about the meaning of Communion is woven into the Faith Formation curriculum at various points, helping children engage with this sacred meal in age-appropriate ways.

Additionally, the clergy and I are happy to meet one-on-one with families who would like to learn more about Communion with their young children. These conversations offer an opportunity to discuss the nature of the sacrament, what happens during the Eucharist, and why this meal is so special.

If you would like to learn more or schedule a time to talk, please contact Vicki Rispoli, Director of Children's Faith Formation, at [email protected]