Quest. XCV. Must the pastors examine the people before the sacrament?
Answ. 1. Regularly they should have sufficient notice after they come to age that they own their baptismal covenant, and that they have that due understanding of the sacrament and the sacramental work, and such a christian profession as is necessary to a due participation.
2. But this is fitliest done at their solemn transition out of their infant church state into their adult: and it is not necessarily to be done every time they come to the Lord’s table (unless the person desire help for his own benefit); but only once, before their first communicating: if it be the satisfaction of the pastor or church that is intended by it.