It is by Christ 's invitation that Holy Communion is celebrated. People in a confirmation programme need to be part of the eucharistic fellowship in the worshipping community. As well, as we grow, so our understanding of the eucharist grows and changes. Other pilgrims, within the wider Christian community, will enrich that understanding as we allow them. Ecumenical worship, wherever and whenever possible, gives opportunity for such encounters to occur.
Ecumenical activities provide for the exchange of ideas and growth in faith.
Discussion, prayer, worship, education and interaction with Christians of other congregations and denominations are all avenues that may challenge an assembly's practice of communing only certain people or only at a certain age . Growth, as we know, happens slowly, and practices change slowly. Congregations will have to practise pastoral sensitivity as they receive new members or welcome guests who come from a place where the age of first Communion is different. Whether confirmation is practised as the moment to receive first Communion, or not, what must remain important for individuals is a climate which promotes growth in faith and discipleship. Communion can hardly be denied to someone who has already been regularly receiving.