The Presentation and Initial Communion

This Sunday the Church celebrates a lesser known feast (no, not Ground Hog’s Day, though I am sure we are all sick of winter at this point!) called “The Presentation.”  It was a Jewish custom that 40 days after a woman gave birth, she was to be ritually cleansed AND the first born son was to be presented at the Temple to be offered in service to God.  Luke’s Gospel (2:22-38) depicts this scene with the Holy Family, where they encounter Simeon and Anna, who proclaim the infant Jesus to be the Messiah, the redeemer of the world.  We are told that Mary and Joseph were “amazed” and perhaps even a bit dumbfounded, but such a response.  While most proud parents enjoy imaging marvelous futures for their child, this blessing is also a huge burden to bear.  Fortunately for the child Jesus, his parents raise him wisely and don’t let his potential overwhelm his childhood.
I stand in awe and humility of parents who undertake the responsibility of raising a child, especially in this day and age.  To take on the care, nurture and formation of another human is the most important and impossible task.  There is no “right way,” no book of answers, not even a final grade, as the child him or herself ultimately must take responsibility for how “they turn out.”  But that doesn't mean they cannot be influenced by their family and community, to be supported in good decisions and right actions.
Such is the commitment we as a community take on when we celebrate a baptism. “Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ?” Answer (in a loud voice) “We will.” (BCP p. 303)  We support these children through offering Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, Youth Group, Mission Trips, Confirmation and Communion instruction.

While the theology of the Episcopal Church is that Baptism is full initiation into the Body of Christ and all the benefits therein, it is helpful to have some instruction on Communion to children when they are older.  It is a mystical experience, which means that it cannot all be explained (and shouldn't!), but learning about the way we do things and why we do things the way we do is beneficial.  So in addition to celebrating the Presentation on Sunday, we will also celebrate with those receiving their Initial Communion after receiving instruction on Saturday and making the Communion bread.  Please join us as we come together as the Body of Christ to break bread and give thanks for the community who supports us in becoming all we are called to be.

In Christ,

Rev. Valerie+

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