Yesterday, Saturday, there was a special mass for the First Communion of young children. It was a very nice event. The church was packed to the point of several standing along the walls. What a happy occasion. I went to watch my friend Henrietta's son Adrian make his First Communion. All the children looked great, nice suits and pretty white dresses and veils. So many proud parents, grandparents, family and friends were present. Truly a blessed event.
There was an issue, though, and I know it is wrong for me to be judgmental but I cannot help myself. Participating in the Eucharist is something I feel helps to strengthen my faith. I was amazed to see so many present to watch those young people make this special step in their faith lives, and yet less than 1/3 of those present went forward to also partake. What kind of example is that for those young people? They saw many people there to encourage and recognize their commitment to accepting Communion yet so many of those present did not themselves accept.
There are times that I do not accept, times when I have not been to Reconciliation and do not feel worthy to accept. I do go forward with arms crossed to receive a blessing. That action is uplifting.
I guess that the children have to go by the old adage of " Do as I say and not as I do." These young people need adult role models that walk the walk and talk the talk. As the numbers of our church dwindle, can we afford not to lead by example?
All in all it was still a very joyous event and I was glad to have been invited by Adrian and his family.
