Something exciting this week at All Saints: we are doing some 'Communion preparation' sessions with children of the parish. While we do not have a set age at which children start receiving the Eucharist, it is important that they learn about the meaning and Biblical basis of the Sacrament, memorize their prayers, and practice how to receive.

In essence, the church does exactly what St. Paul explains in the passage above: we "pass on that which we have received." Think about it, the teachings and traditions of the Christian faith have been offered from one generation to the next, year after year - that's how the faith survives. After 2,000 years, Christians all over the world still obey Jesus Christ's sacred command regarding the Eucharist: "Do this in remembrance of me."

Of course, Holy Communion is more than just a symbol or memory. Rather, it is a Sacrament, made possible through grace. Jesus Christ truly comes to us in the bread and the wine, which is His body and blood.

I was recently cleaning out some church closets with our Family Ministry Administrator, Lucie Lytle. It's amazing the things you can find! We came across a beautiful felt banner featuring a chalice and host, with the words "Receive the Lord" at the top. I really like this. There are various ways to describe what we do in Eucharist. We "come to the table," or we "participate in Christ," or we "become a living sacrifice." But this short phrase, "Receive the Lord" might just be the best.

Does it ever take your breath away? When you extend your hands, and the fullness of Jesus Christ is placed into your palm? That He invites us to consume Him, such that He literally dwells within us - just as we dwell in Him? It's stunning, really.

God bless you!

Fr. Matthew