The Church of England has adopted a scheme whereby children over the age of 8 can be admitted to Holy Communion prior to Confirmation.

The PCC at St. Barnabas' discussed this proposal and decided to apply for permission from the Bishop to start this initiative. The Bishop has now given permission and in June this year the first of our children will be admitted to Holy Communion.

To be admitted the children's parents must first speak with the Vicar and then the Vicar will talk with the parents and child to see whether the child is ready for this important step in his or her spiritual life. The child/children will then have a four week preparation course and at a special service will be admitted to Holy Communion. Children will then be prepared for Confirmation at the age of 16.

It is hoped that by adopting this way forward children, who can from a very early age understand the meaning of having a relationship with Jesus will feel that they are a full member of the body of Christ.