What is Communion?
Communion is one of the sacraments of the church, a symbolic action that allows Christians to encounter the goodness of God. Also known as the Lord’s Supper, Communion is a celebration that symbolises our participation in the Passover supper on the night that Jesus was sent to be crucified. It serves as a symbol of God’s grace revealed in Jesus Christ who gave his body and blood as a sacrifice for our sins. Jesus freely gave his life up for us, and in that spirit of compassionate love, we participate in the meal that Jesus hosted for his disciples so we can be fully part of Jesus’ salvation.
While they were eating, Jesus took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take, eat; this is my body.” Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, saying, “Drink from it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. I tell you, I will never again drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father’s kingdom.” (Matthew 26:26-29 NRSVUE)
What is Involved?
Communion is typically held once a month on the first Sunday as part of the worship service. Following the blessing of the offering, the minister begins the sacrament of Communion with a dedicated hymn, allowing worshippers to meditate and prepare themselves to participate in this sacred encounter of salvation.
Following the hymn, the minister proclaims the invitation to the table. As Jesus is the host, he is the one that invites us to participate. The minister shares the invitation with everyone present, calling the people of God to join together in the sacrament of Communion.
Following the invitation, the people are invited to join in the Great Prayer of Thanksgiving. This prayer contains responsive elements (indicated on the projector screen using BLOCK CAPITAL LETTERS) that symbolize the people’s declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. There are also some sung responses, which are also indicated on the screen. The prayer is rooted in ancient Jewish table blessings. Just as Jesus would have prayed a prayer of thanksgiving, so too do we follow in that example, remembering the story of salvation leading up to the redeeming work of Jesus.
During the prayer, the minister will break a loaf of bread and bless the cup of wine to symbolize Christ’s actions during the supper, sacrificing his flesh and blood (symbolized with the bread and wine) for all of us, freeing us from the bondage of sin.
The minister concludes the Great Prayer of Thanksgiving with the Lord ’s Prayer which may be spoken or sung. Following the Lord’s Prayer, the minister calls for the people to rise and receive Communion through the distribution of the elements. At Knox-St. Paul’s, the people are called to go to one of two stations located on both ends of the sanctuary. You are invited to go to the station closest to you.
Upon arrival at the station, you will find two people. One will hold a plate containing pieces of bread and the other will hold a plate of pre-filled cups of grape juice. As the words of blessing are spoken to you, you are invited to take a piece of bread and a pre-filled cup, and consume them. During the distribution, you may pray silently in your heart, giving thanks for the offered sacrifice of Jesus. Once you have consumed your bread and juice, place your cup in the designated basket next to the volunteers.
Following the distribution of the elements, the choir performs a special piece of music to celebrate the people’s participation in the sacrament. Finally, the minister engages in prayer to close the time of Communion, transitioning into the closing hymn and benediction, dismissing the people to go out into the world to proclaim the glory of God’s goodness.
What if I’m not a member of the United Church of Canada?
The United Church of Canada practises an open table, meaning that anyone who is a baptised Christian is invited to participate and partake in Communion. The sacrament is given not because we’ve earned it or deserve it, we are invited because it is a gift freely given by Jesus for all. If you have any questions, feel free to speak with the minister.
Are Children allowed to participate in Communion?
Jesus said “Let the children come to me, and do not stop them, for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” (Luke 18:16 NRSVUE). We do not have to fully understand how Communion works in order to participate in it. Jesus gave himself for us, and as followers of Jesus, we are constantly learning and growing. Parents and/or Guardians are encouraged to let their child ask questions and when they believe they are ready, children are called to join with the people in the Sacrament of Communion.
What if I have a food allergy?
We offer gluten-free crackers as an alternative to the bread. If you have allergies to grape juice, please speak with the minister before the service to arrange for an alternative.