Bampton welcomes children to take Holy Communion

AS the issue of Children taking Holy Communion is once more being debated at General Synod one local church has voted with its feet.

Junior Church leaders at St Mary's in Bampton expected five or six children to be interested when the PCC voted to welcome unconfirmed youngsters for communion.  In fact a total of 15 (aged 8 and 9) recently celebrated their first Holy Communion after a special programme preparing them for their new commitment to Christ.

The Revd David Lloyd told The DOOR that approval has been a gradual process in the parish: ‘Lots of young families including some who had enjoyed taking communion together at other churches have asked why not here?

‘Most people now accept that the children going forward for Holy Communion are regular members of Junior Church and should be allowed to cement their relationship with God when they feel ready.’

Special Junior Church sessions looked at communion, baptism, prayer and what it means to be a Christian.
'There was lots of discussion,' says David: 'The children were very receptive and enthusiastic and took the course very seriously.

‘Choosing to make this commitment made them look at what is important in their lives and what their priorities are.’
The St Mary’s course was based on guidelines from the Diocese of Oxford.  Diocesan Children's Adviser Jenny Hyson says: 'Children and communion is a hot issue all over the diocese.  I’ve had a number of calls from parishes wanting to discuss it.' 

‘The Bishops of our diocese are theologically supportive of the concept but it is a topic that provokes strong views on both sides.  Our  guidelines aim to promote open discussion, not provide a fait accompli.'

General Synod debate is now moving towards national guidelines being replaced by regulations next year.

Back at Bampton, Tessa Kuin Lawton recalls the first Holy Communion service at St Mary's: 'In the celebratory chaos of cake and champagne that was the aftermath… a few things stick in the mind: The elements being brought to David by Junior Church Leaders who are so loved by  the children and a whisper going round that “that's our bread and wine in there”.

'Kneeling next to my daughter as she shared the food that Jesus has offered us all for more than 2000 years.  
And seeing them all lined up… holding their candles and promising to be 'lights that shine in the world.
‘If the extraordinary, energetic presence of so many children in the church is an indication of what the church can be, then we really do have a Gospel to proclaim.'

For a copy of the diocesan guidelines 'We Welcome You' (£2.50)  telephone Jenny Hyson on 01865 208255 or email jenny.hyson@oxford.anglican.org