For You.

Posted on February 4, 2023 | Posted by Mary Stoneback

The table is set, all are welcome.

These are the words you often hear before communion. And we mean it. About ten years ago,
Ascension decided to change its practice of “first communion.” Instead of having a prescribed
age/grade for first communion, we decided to welcome all who wanted to receive.
What makes a person ready to receive communion? Some think you need to really understand
what is happening in the meal. And certainly an understanding of the meal will help us better
appreciate the gift. But the mystery of bread and wine becoming the full grace of God in body and
blood is beyond us all.

Luther believed faith was integral to receive communion. But faith isn’t a knowledge of certain
facts. Faith is trust. Trust that in the meal, God is loving you. Trust that in this meal, God is being
gracious to you. Trust that this meal is for you. This sort of faith can come at any age. There are times
in our lives when we are barely holding on to that faith and times when it is the rock on which we stand.
But in all times, the meal is for you.

On February 5th , we are excited to recognize some children at Ascension who are joining us at
the table for the first time. Join us celebrating with them the meal that is for you. The below image is of the Sunday time of learning with Pastor Daniel Smith about Communion, in preparation for the blessing on February 5th.