Faith Promises & First Communion

Faith Promises

“Here is my son, with whom I am well pleased!” (Matthew 3:17)

In Baptism, parents, sponsors, and the church community make sacred promises as God welcomes a new member into the family of faith. These promises affirm that the church will support and nurture a life rooted in Christ. Parents pledge to raise their child in the faith, and the congregation promises to walk alongside them in love and encouragement.

At Saint Michael, we are filled with joy each time we witness these promises being made—and even more so when we help fulfill them. Our hope is not only to celebrate a child’s growth in faith but to actively support each step of their journey.

To live out these promises, Faith Promises offers several milestone-based learning experiences for families:

Growing in Worship (Kindergarten–1st Grade)

A session designed to help children and their families explore the elements of worship—what they mean, why we do them, and how we participate as part of the church community.

First Communion and Forgiveness (1st–4th Grade)

This two-week session helps children prepare to receive Holy Communion. Together, we explore themes of grace, forgiveness, and welcome at the Communion Table. The experience concludes with a special Seder Meal during Holy Week.

My Bible, My Story (2nd Grade)

A four-week program for second graders and their parents as they prepare to receive their first Bible. Together, we dive into foundational Bible stories and discover how God’s story becomes our story.

First Communion Classes

First Communion classes are typically offered during Lent (February–March) each year. Children who participate in the learning sessions begin receiving Communion at the Maundy Thursday worship service at 7 PM.

If you’re wondering whether your child is ready to begin this next step in their faith journey, please read the information below and reach out to the church office with any questions.

Question #1: Is My Child Ready for First Communion?

The decision for a child to begin receiving Holy Communion is made by parents in conversation with Pastor Tim or Pastor Cara. At Saint Michael, we view this as a partnership—supporting you in nurturing your child’s faith and helping you determine the right time for this meaningful step.

Children may begin First Communion classes at any age, though most typically start between ages 5 and 4th grade.

Because children grow and mature at different rates, there’s no “one-size-fits-all” age. Instead, we look for signs of readiness—what we call “soil conditions”—to help ensure the experience is meaningful and faith-building.

Question #2: What Are “Soil Conditions”?

In baptism, parents and sponsors promise to help children “grow in faith, love, and obedience to God’s will.” First Communion is one important step on that lifelong journey. Just as soil must be prepared for seeds to grow, we look for signs that a child is spiritually and developmentally ready to receive the sacrament.

Signs Your Child May Be Ready:

  • Your child has been baptized.

  • They can eat bread and drink wine or grape juice.

  • They attend worship regularly and are familiar with the basic parts of the service.

  • They show a basic trust in God and know they are loved by God through Jesus.

  • They understand the idea of a gift freely given and can receive it with gratitude.

  • They are aware of others in community and value being part of the church family.

  • They ask questions about the Lord’s Supper and show interest over time.

  • They can respond to the meal with joy and thankfulness.

  • Parents are active in worship and model love for Holy Communion.

  • Sponsors and parents are willing to support faith development at home.

At Saint Michael, we are committed to helping families prepare children to receive Holy Communion in a way that is developmentally appropriate, spiritually rich, and deeply rooted in love.

To learn more or express interest in the next First Communion class, please contact the church office.