How to Prepare Children for Eucharist

The Eucharist is an important aspect of many Christian traditions.

Taking part in the Eucharist for the first time is an important part of everyone's Christian life, and it is important that children receiving the Eucharist and Holy Communion for the first time know this. Depending on the child, this may be a difficult subject to discuss, but you can help your child understand the true meaning of the Eucharist.

Instructions

1. Explain the meaning of bread and wine as "spiritual food." Many young children may not understand the significance of the Last Supper or of Jesus' sacrifice, but they will most likely understand the importance of eating food. All children should understand that they eat because they need to in order to survive or even simply because it tastes good. Explain to them that what they are eating at the Eucharist will not just nourish them physically, but spiritually. The bread and wine is the body and blood of Christ, who sacrificed himself so that all who believe in Him will live forever.

2. Have your child practice the ritual of the Eucharist. This may be something that your church can help with, as most Catholic churches offer classes for children to learn about the Eucharist once they are seven or eight years old. Receiving the Eucharist is simple, but there is a ritual involved. Go over it with your child even if the church teaches them, to support her if there is some trepidation. You can even practice with a piece of bread in place of a holy wafer to make sure your child fully understands what to do.

3. Make it clear that the Eucharist is a happy celebration. The child is partaking in a holy ritual in memory of Jesus' death and resurrection, possibly the most important aspect of the Christian faith. Encourage your child that this is very important and that receiving Eucharist and Holy Communion should be celebrated. Invite friends and family to the service to reassure your child, and celebrate the blessing that he has received after it is finished. This will all go a long way in encouraging your child to follow the Word of God for the rest of his life.

References

• Beliefnet; Four Ways to Prepare Your Child for First Communion; Bert Ghezzi
• Advent Source; Children and Communication

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish