Infant Communion

In continual exploration of the meaning of the gift of communion given by our Lord, I come upon differences in the nature and means by which the Holy Eucharist is given. Even among Lutherans, it is quite intriguing to understand differing views.

Long ago, I went to an Eastern Orthodox service with a friend who is a part of the church. At that point, I still considered myself a Reformed Baptist, and I thought it was quite a strange sight to see a baby of the congregation being taken to receive the bread and wine.

Now in reflecting upon that past memory, and considering myself most aligned with the Lutheran doctrines on the Eucharist, I can't help but inquire on the nature of infant communion. The Catholic Church, from which originated the church of Martin Luther, did not practice infant communion due to the understanding that children had not yet reached an age of accountability. For the most part, Lutherans do not believe in an age of accountability nor the removal of original sins at baptism. That thus begs the question why the majority of Lutheran congregations do not administer communion to infants—beyond, of course, digestive issues for recent newborns or premature infants.

Jesus said in the Gospels, "Let the children come to me." That would then draw a logical conclusion that not only are those with a clear confession of faith but those who do not have a clear understanding of "faith" yet still practice by the grace of our Lord may receive the Eucharist. I would like to see what views there are on this matter because I have seen myself agreeing more so with the Orthodox position on communion. To me, however, this is quite a tertiary issue, as a child is bound to receive communion at the time in which God intends. God bless you all, and happy Wednesday!