First Communion - Visible Sign of God's Love

First Communion is an imporant step in each Christian’s faith development. It marks the very first time that a child or adult participates in taking the sacrament of Holy Communion also known as the Lord’s Supper or Eucharist. First Communion is especially significant for a child in that it represents the commitment a child makes for himself or herself to join equally with other Christians at Christ’s table. 

Instruction as to what Holy Communion means helps communicants young and old understand how God’s grace is given to those who receive the Lord’s Supper. Like baptism, the reception of the sacrament of the Eucharist brings us into a closer relationship with God and identifies us as the church. However, unlike baptism, Holy Communion is an on-going sacrament.

Martin Luther described the Lord’s Supper as a mystery in which the promise of Jesus’ presence can be “in, with and under” ordinary things like bread and wine. Luther rightfully taught that the Lord’s Supper is a way of communicating the grace of God and that within this gift is the real presence of God’s forgiveness and mercy, nourishing us in union with the Lord and with others; while at the same time confirming the promise of everlasting life. With this being the case in regard to the Lord’s Supper it does not make sense to withhold it from children when they show an interest in receiving the sacrament. 

At El Milagro children may receive communion at any age following baptism, provided this is the will of the parents and the pastor is in agreement. However, it is the tradition to offer training to children as young as 6 with the end being that even young children have a real understanding with regards to receiving Holy Communion. To schedule an appointment with Pastor Judith VanOsdol for 1st Communion instruction please call the office at (612)721-5021 or e-mail her at: judithvo@gmail.com.