Admission to Holy Communion
It has been the recent tradition in the Church of England to admit people to Holy Communion only after they have been confirmed. This has sometimes resulted in people who regularly attend services of Holy Communion, but who are not confirmed, feeling “left out” or even rejected by the church community. Often some of those who find themselves in this situation wish to receive Communion but do not feel ready to come to Confirmation. The Church of England has recognised this and has allowed for baptised people to be admitted to Holy Communion under certain circumstances. Usually this applies to children. Increasingly this situation is one we are facing within the Team. The Parochial Church Councils of the Team have considered the issue. They are very happy for people who have been confirmed to then come to communion as is the case now. However they have agreed to allow the admission of people to Holy Communion before Confirmation under certain circumstances. These are: 1. The person requesting admission to Holy Communion must be baptised. 2. The request must come from the individual and have the support of parents and the incumbent. 3. Before Admission to Holy Communion the person must be appropriately prepared. A register will be kept of all such individuals admitted to Holy Communion in this way. Anyone who is baptised and wishes to be receive Holy Communion before they are confirmed or to discuss the issue in general terms are asked to discuss this in the first place with their incumbent – Nigel Davies or Mike Shepherd. Mike Shepherd Team Vicar
