St. Matthew Catholic Church at 25 Wilkins Rd., Winder, GA 30680 US - Mass, Communion and Children
| Mass, Communion and Children |
Since parents are the main teachers of children in all things, they should also teach them about Holy Mass and about reception of Holy Communion.
The teaching begins at home when the family gets ready to come to Mass. You should talk to your children about the special trip they are making to church. They groom extra well, wash hands, and wear something better than play clothes. Make very sure they are not chewing gum. Try hard to have a peaceful trip to the church. Eating and drinking on the way is not proper because they should fast one hour from food and drink before Holy Communion.
On arrival the children dip their hand into the holy water font and make the Sign of the Cross slowly. Show them how to genuflect in straight posture with one knee to the floor before entering the pew. When they first enter the pew, they should kneel, and they should not rest on the seat behind them.
Parents, please do your best to make the children pray out loud and participate at the Mass. Use the missalette or buy a copy of “The Mass for Children”, which is available in the school. Do not allow them to slouch or have their hands in their pockets.
At the time of Holy Communion they come forward to receive the Body of Christ either on the tongue or in the hand. Those who receive the Host on the tongue should tilt the head back slightly and extend the tongue with the mouth open. If Holy Communion is to be received in the hand, one hand should be placed on top of the other. The hands should be elevated enough for easy placement of Holy Communion. Step aside and immediately eat the Host.
By all means, encourage the children to take a sip of the Precious Blood, but make sure they do it slowly to prevent spillage. Never,, never, allow anyone to walk away with the Sacred Host in their hand or in their pockets!
I hope, parents, that you will find these notes helpful. – Leo.
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