Children at Communion

This is, indeed, an important topic for families.  We used to prohibit
the kids from participating, one, because they were much younger then
and didn't really appreciate the symbolism and significance, and two,
because that's the way we were taught when we were growing up
(tradition - not participating until after baptism).  But, a few years
ago, when we started doing the Agape Feast, where a typical Jewish
Passover is "re-enacted" by the church on Friday evening, I began
understanding that the Jewish Passover (from which and after which our
Communion Service has originated) includes the WHOLE family in the
service, with kids having important roles (including the youngest kid at
the table who can ask a question) throughout the supper.  The purpose,
of course, is to involve the children in understanding the significance
of all the elements of the Passover.

Since then, while participating in the Agape Feast, we have allowed the
girls to drink the juice and unleavened bread and, prior to that, wash
each other's feet.  So, if we could have them participate and understand
the service, I don't see why they could not join in.  I understand the
"double standard" appearance of the Church Manual, but really, we ALL
are unworthy anyway, apart from Jesus, to join in.  I guess the intent
was to exclude anyone who doesn't care or understand what they are doing
and why they're doing the ritual, regardless of age, simply because why
go through the motions if the meaning is not there?

Pastor Tom Hughes, Newark Seventh-Day Adventist Church