Continuing on from yesterday's blog, I consider once again the grounds
for the practice of first Holy Communion in the Roman Catholic Church. The present-day
sequence is as follows:
Baptism → Holy communion → Confirmation
This sequence, which has been in place since the early decades of the last century is a relatively modern practice and was fairly unique among the main branches of Christianity up until recent times.
At this time of year, most parishes across the world in the
Roman Catholic Church are preparing children for the reception of first Holy Communion.
It is a special moment on the spiritual journey undertaken by families who wish
that their children be admitted to full eucharistic communion with the worldwide
church. It is no small thing to receive
the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. Jesus once told his
disciples:
‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs’ (Mark 10:14)
Hopefully, all of these children will continue to experience the blessings of attending Sunday Mass on a weekly basis wherever they are. It is, of course, a family choice and parents are the guardians and the exemplars. If the Eucharist means a huge amount to us then we will take the time, effort and trouble to make it a top priority every weekend no matter what.
