Holy Communion is a precious gift from God and a Sacrament in the Lutheran Church.
Our Catechism teaches: ‘Our Lord Jesus Christ, on the night when He was betrayed, took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples and said: “Take and eat; this is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.” In the same way, He took the cup after the supper, and when He had given thanks, He gave it to them, and said, “Drink of it, all of you; this is My blood of the new covenant which is shed for you for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me”.’ Our Catechism also teaches: ‘ A person rightly prepared to receive this sacrament… who believes these words: “Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins”.’
The Lutheran Church of Australia has adopted the practice of accepting baptised children at the Altar to receive Holy Communion (usually from around 10 years of age). The children are required to complete a course of instruction led by the pastor. A family member (usually a parent) also attends this course. Those who attend this course need their own Bible, as well as a copy of Martin Luther’s Small Catechism (both can be provided by the Congregation). ‘First Communion’ does not take the place of ‘Confirmation’, and it is also an expectation that anyone who receives their First Communion will complete the Course of Instruction leading to ‘Confirmation’ at the appropriate time.
If you wish to enrol in the next First Communion group or would like more information on this, please contact Pastor (you may use the form below).
