Communion is one of the two ordinances (practices) of the New Testament Church. The other is Baptism. Communion is also referred to as the Lord’s Supper. 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 tells us it symbolizes the following.
Here are some suggestions for communion.
Keep it regular. There is nothing stated in the New Testament about frequency. Some Churches practice it each week, others each month. Others do so less often, but still engage in a meaningful experience.
Keep it fresh. This requires creativity. Some Churches vary the presentation to keep the experience meaningful. Options include going forward, passing the plate. Stay away from a practice that might remind people of a practice associated with a religious tradition they left. Most former Catholics would be hesitant to receive communion that served one element or was placed in their mouth by the Pastor.
One creative option is to combine it with singing and encourage people partake during the praise set. Choose contemplative songs related to the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection. Ending the song set to an upbeat, celebratory song of thanksgiving is a good way to close out such an experience. A five-minute (last song) countdown on a screen would give people an idea of when the time ends.
Another creative option that can be combined with the above is to have people write anonymous love notes to Jesus on 3x5 cards. Have them available where people sit and ask them to leave them at the table where they receive communion. Encourage people write a card and leave it on the communion table. Allow people to read a card or two before partaking. It is uplifting to see how others express their love for Christ. Churches who do this can also post the cards in the foyer or post the comments online.
Keep it holy. This is important. Don’t combine it with an offering. Combining it with other practices dilutes the meaning for new believers, confuses visitors and cheapens its importance. Communion should not be associated with money.
- Proclamation of the death of Christ.
- Remembrance of the sacrificial nature of His death.
- Remembrance of the forgiveness made available through the shedding of Christ's blood.
- Anticipation of the return of Christ.
Here are some suggestions for communion.
Keep it regular. There is nothing stated in the New Testament about frequency. Some Churches practice it each week, others each month. Others do so less often, but still engage in a meaningful experience.
Keep it fresh. This requires creativity. Some Churches vary the presentation to keep the experience meaningful. Options include going forward, passing the plate. Stay away from a practice that might remind people of a practice associated with a religious tradition they left. Most former Catholics would be hesitant to receive communion that served one element or was placed in their mouth by the Pastor.
One creative option is to combine it with singing and encourage people partake during the praise set. Choose contemplative songs related to the meaning of Christ’s death and resurrection. Ending the song set to an upbeat, celebratory song of thanksgiving is a good way to close out such an experience. A five-minute (last song) countdown on a screen would give people an idea of when the time ends.
Another creative option that can be combined with the above is to have people write anonymous love notes to Jesus on 3x5 cards. Have them available where people sit and ask them to leave them at the table where they receive communion. Encourage people write a card and leave it on the communion table. Allow people to read a card or two before partaking. It is uplifting to see how others express their love for Christ. Churches who do this can also post the cards in the foyer or post the comments online.
Keep it holy. This is important. Don’t combine it with an offering. Combining it with other practices dilutes the meaning for new believers, confuses visitors and cheapens its importance. Communion should not be associated with money.