The Lord's Supper

Two weeks ago, in Confirmation class we discussed the topic of The Lord's Supper. It has many other names, The Last Supper, Holy Communion, The Eucharist...to name a few. Communion is one of the two sacraments in the Lutheran church along with Baptism. In baptism we are baptized once. But Communion is a bit different. My personal belief is that we take Communion as often as possible. Why? Because we do it "in remembrance" of what Christ did on the cross to save us from eternal death. I don't know about you, but I need to be reminded... OFTEN, because I forget often!

So, here at Peace it is our practice to share Communion every week. When I'm gone, If I can find an ordained pastor to fill in for me, they preside over Communion. If it is any one leading worship who is not ordained, we haven't had Communion. I was asked if I could “pre-consecrate” the bread. I had a hard time with that one because I don’t believe that’s how it should be done. Communion is done in community, not prayed over in the sacristy by a pastor. So, I made a compromise… we will have extra bread, wine, and juice on the altar on Sunday. When I’m not here next Sunday, the congregation will share those elements together remembering what we had shared the Sunday before. That is also the practice we use when taking Communion to those who are unable to attend worship. Even then, it’s done in community. I always take Communion with whoever I’m visiting and invite any others who might be present to join us.

So, whatever we call it… it really is The Lord’s Supper. Christ is the one who instituted the new covenant and reminds us of his love.

See you Sunday!