Communion

What is Communion?

Communion is an ancient Christian tradition which was taught to us by Jesus Christ during what is called the “Last Supper.”  It is a reminder, a present reality and a “foretaste of the heavenly banquet.”  It is first a reminder of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  The breaking of the bread and the pouring of the cup are physical symbols of Christ’s death on the cross.  It is next a present reality because the Church participates in the earthly act of eating a communal meal together.  As the bread and wine are consumed in fellowship, the human body is strengthened and along with it the Church.  Lastly, it is but a small taste of the “banquet” that awaits us at the end of time.  As we live in this world, Communion anticipates a future time of peace and life everlasting.

When do we celebrate Communion?
Generally, we celebrate communion on the first Sunday of every month.  We also celebrate it at other times of the year such as on Christmas Eve and on Easter Sunday.

What actions comprise this sacrament?
Following Christ's example, the minister serving Communion takes bread and wine (we use grape juice), gives thanks for them, breaks the bread, pours the wine, and gives them to the people. The people then eat and drink.

What are the Communion elements?
We generally use a loaf of plain bread, cutting some into cubes and leaving some intact.  The "wine" that we use is non-alcoholic grape juice.  If you are unable to eat these elements or choose not to please speak with the pastor about alternatives.

Who may take part in the Lord's Supper?
The invitation to the Lord's Supper is extended to all who seek a relationship with Jesus Christ.  Below is our invitation to Communion.

“Sisters and brothers, this table is open to all who confess Jesus as the Christ and seek to follow in Christ’s way.  Come to this sacred table not because you must, but because you may.  Come not because you are fulfilled, but because in your emptiness you stand in need of God’s mercy and assurance.  Come not to express an opinion, but to seek a presence and to pray for a spirit.  Come to this table then, as you are.  Partake and share.  For this table is spread for you and me that we might again know that God has come to us, shared our common lot, and invited us to walk together as Christ’s disciples.”

May children receive Communion?
Yes.  It is helpful to understand that a child’s understanding of Communion will vary greatly.  As part of their development a child’s participation in Communion should take place in the context of their continuing Christian nurture at home and in the church.

What exactly do I do?
The Lord's Supper will be served in one of two ways: in the pews or at the Table (using the Intinction method of dipping the bread in the cup).

In the Pews - The ushers will distribute the bread and wine to the people as they sit in the pews.  As the plate of bread is passed to you, take a cube of bread or tear off a piece for yourself and hand the plate to the person next to you. After all the people on your pew have been served, the plate is returned to the usher. To enhance the communal nature of meal, please refrain from eating until all have been served and the pastor invites all to eat.

The usher will next pass the tray of wine. Take a cup as the tray is passed, and pass the tray to the person next to you. As with the bread, please refrain from eating until all have been served.

Sharing Communion in the pews expresses our ministry to one another in the "priesthood of all believers."  When passing the bread you may say, "The body of Christ given for you." When passing the wine you may say, "The blood of Christ shed for you."   When these words are spoken, the person receiving the bread and wine may respond "Amen."

At the Table - The people may also be invited to come to the Lord's Table.  An usher will indicate when it is your turn.  Please take your time. There is no need to hurry. As you approach the Table, take a cube of bread or tear off a piece for yourself, then proceed to the minister, and dip the bread into the wine.  You may eat immediately and then return to your seat for a time of quiet reflection and prayer.

What if I cannot come to the Table?
If you are unable to come forward for Communion for any reason, please signal an usher and ask to be served in your pew.

What other actions take place as the people eat and drink?
Songs are sung by the choir and congregation, music is played, and periods of silence are kept. You are invited to take part in all these forms of communal prayer, and to pray individually.