Tim Schenck shares the ten things he tells kids about Communion.
Building Faith from Virginia Theological Seminary:
Communion, or Holy Eucharist, is an ongoing conversation for all of us. As a priest, I have the responsibility for teaching those who come to the altar rail. I love to teach kids. Kids are certainly able to relate to the practice and the idea of communion in deeper ways at different times in their lives. Since we don’t offer “First Communion,” I do think it’s important to offer instruction at various points throughout our kids’ lives.
I have a number of topics I like to cover with young children, some theological, some practical. Here are a few points I always like to highlight.
1. Communion is a holy meal, not a Happy Meal. Although as a holy meal in can certainly make you happy.
2. Communion is not a snack. We don’t take communion just because we’re hungry in the middle of the service. That’s what Goldfish during Sunday school are for. It’s a meal for the soul, not the body.
3. Communion is not a to-go meal. Finish it at the communion rail. There are no communion doggie bags.
4. There is no “kids’ table” at church. Everyone, regardless of age, is welcome to receive at the Lord’s Table.
5. Communion connects us to Jesus.