“Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘Take and eat; this is my body.’ Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, saying, ‘Drink from it, all of you. This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Matthew 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20; 1 Cor 11:17-29
On the journey through our earthly life to heaven, our good and gracious God provides a holy and precious meal to sustain and strengthen us on our pilgrimage—the Sacrament of Holy Communion. What a privilege it is for us to receive this powerfully comforting gift!
What is Holy Communion?
It is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ under the bread and wine, instituted by Christ Himself for us Christians to eat and to drink (Small Catechism). Our Lord Jesus Christ instituted the Sacrament of Holy Communion with these words: “This is My body, given for you. This cup is My blood of the new testament, shed for you for the forgiveness of sins” (Matt. 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:14-20; 1 Cor. 11:23-25).
Why do we need Holy Communion?
As we examine our lives in the bright light of God’s holiness, we realize how much we have sinned and how much we need His forgiveness. Our sinfulness and the troubles, sorrows, difficulties and stresses of our life in this fallen world are all reasons we need Holy Communion.
As great as our need is, even greater is the life-giving meal He has provided! It is a very personal way God works in our life to save us, to strengthen us and to keep us close to Him. Jesus promised to be with us always, to the very close of the age (Matt. 28:20). Through His precious Word and Sacraments, our Lord continues to fulfill His promise.
Who Joins?
We believe the Sacrament of Holy Communion is a gift of Christ to His Church and that all who receive this gift must first examine themselves concerning matters of Biblical faith and Godly living. "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup." (1 Corinthians 11:28) We ask that you examine yourself according to these questions:
- Do I believe that I am a sinner without hope of eternal life apart from God’s mercy offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ?
- Do I repent of my sins in thought, speech, and behavior as well as my failure to do the good things God wants me to do?
- Do I believe that Jesus Christ is God’s Son and my personal Savior?
- Do I believe that Jesus Christ is personally and physically present in the sacrament of Holy Communion with His body and His blood?
- Do I desire, by the power of the Holy Spirit and the instruction of God’s Word, to live a life pleasing to Him?
We believe your “yes” to these questions affirms a common faith with confirmed Lutheran Christians and is your invitation to our Lord’s Table of Holy Communion. Adults and Children who have not been confirmed or instructed in Holy Communion are welcome to come forward and receive a pastoral blessing. Please cross one’s arms (X) over one’s chest indicating to a Communion Deacon the desire for a blessing.
What to Expect?
Wine
We use individual cups of red port wine. White grape juice is available in cups in the center of tray.
Bread
We use small wafers of unleavened bread, ingredients wheat flour and water only. Gluten-free wafers are available upon request.
Coming Forward
On Sundays, participants receive Communion kneeling at the altar rail and may remain at the altar rail for silent prayer. A continuous flow line is available in front of the pulpit for anyone with difficulty ascending steps.
On Saturdays, participants receive Communion in a continuous flow line in front of the chancel steps.
Remaining in Pews
Communion Deacons are happy to bring communion to anyone in the pew who may have difficulty coming forward. Please let an usher know.
When is Holy Communion Offered?
Holy Communion is regularly offered at all of our weekend worship services.
- If you would like to know more about The Sacrament of Holy Communion, please see: Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod