How do you know when your child is ready to participate in the Lord’s Supper? Although every child’s journey to faith is different, at Ivy Creek Church we have set forth a series of steps to help parents guide their children through this process.

First, we encourage parents to allow their child to express an interest in participating in the Lord’s Supper. Parents then begin or continue a conversation with their child about the meaning of the sacrament and explore their son or daughter’s motivation for participating. If the parent(s) believes the child has a real grasp of the gospel, they should contact the Children’s Ministry Director.

Next, the Children’s Ministry Director will meet with the child to hear their testimony and about their desire to participate in the Lord's Supper. At the conclusion of this meeting the Children’s Ministry Director will make a recommendation to the parent(s) about whether or not the child seems ready to participate in communion. If so, the child should fill out an application for membership (with a parent’s help) and return it to the church office. If the Children’s Ministry Director feels the child needs more time and growth she will offer advice about how the parent can encourage and continue to disciple their child.

After the application is complete and turned into the church office, the Children’s Ministry Director will inform the appropriate elder who will schedule a meeting between the child and an elder or pastor. At this meeting the child will once again discuss their faith. If the elder or pastor feels the child is spiritually ready he will recommend to the church that this child be allowed to participate in the Lord’s Supper. If the elder or pastor does not feel they can make such a recommendation at this time, he will provide an explanation and counsel to the child and parent(s).

Finally, the child will make a public profession of faith (usually by responding to basic questions asked by a pastor) during a regular worship service. A congregational worship setting offers an opportunity for the believing child to publically share their faith commitment, something we at Ivy Creek believe is an important step in their spiritual development. It also gives the church family an opportunity to celebrate the child's first communion and to make public promises of support.