Joshua Bennett
Communion is a sacred ritual observed by Christians all over the world to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for them. It is a time of worship, remembrance, celebration, and reflection. Communion services can be ornate or simple, traditional or modern, but the focus is always on the elements of bread and wine/juice, which represent Christ's body and blood. Communion services typically involve a reading of Scripture, a visual demonstration of the breaking of bread, and the passing of the elements to the congregation. The service may also include hymns, prayers, and personal reflection.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To remember Christ and His gospel work |
| Who can take part | People who have put their trust in Jesus and accepted Him as the forgiver of their sins |
| What to use | Bread and wine/juice |
| How to serve | Using trays and plates, with two ushers for each cluster of rows |
| Visuals | Crosses, communion elements, depictions of Jesus, meaningful words, etc. |
| Music | Hymns, songs, or music |
| Scripture | Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Mark 15:21-29, John 19, 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, and Galatians 2:16-21 |
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What You'll Learn
Who should be allowed to take part in communion?
Communion is a sacred ritual or ceremony that Jesus instituted for the Church to follow. It is a symbolic way to show that we belong to Jesus and to remember what He did for us. It is a time of remembrance, celebration, and reflection.
There are differing views on who should be allowed to take part in communion. Some believe that anyone who desires to should be able to take communion, regardless of whether they believe in Jesus Christ. Others argue that only those who have professed their faith in Jesus Christ and actively follow Him should be allowed to participate. Many churches subscribe to this view, and some even go so far as to restrict communion to members of their particular church or denomination. This seemingly strict rule may be motivated by a desire to ensure that only those who are "'worthy' receive communion, and that individuals have gone through a membership process.
Communion is specifically meant for those who have put their trust in Jesus and accepted Him as the forgiver of their sins and the leader of their lives. It is a way to remember the sacrifice and promise that Jesus made and to reflect on our relationship with Him and others.
In the Catholic Church, baptized persons who are communicant members of other Churches that subscribe to the doctrine of the Holy Trinity and are in good standing in their own Church are admitted to Communion, according to Canon B 15A.
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How to prepare the atmosphere
Preparing the atmosphere for a Catholic communion service involves thoughtful planning and attention to detail to create a meaningful and reverent experience for the congregation. Here are some important considerations:
Visual Elements
Visual elements play a significant role in setting the atmosphere for the service. The use of imagery and symbolism can enhance the overall experience and deepen the spiritual connection for the congregation. Consider using visuals such as crosses, depictions of Jesus, or communion elements like bread and wine/juice. These visuals can be displayed on screens using projection, LCD televisions, or LED panels. Alternatively, traditional churches may opt for physical symbols and artefacts to create a solemn atmosphere.
Music and Hymns
Music and hymns are a powerful tool for creating an atmosphere and engaging the congregation emotionally. Hymns, either traditional or contemporary, can be incorporated into the service to reinforce the themes of worship, remembrance, and celebration. Music can also provide a sense of unity and community within the congregation, fostering a collective spiritual experience.
Scripture Readings
The choice of Scripture passages is crucial to preparing the atmosphere. Readings should focus on the Last Supper, the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ, and the promise of salvation. Examples include Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Mark 15:21-29, John 19, 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, and Galatians 2:16-21. These readings set the tone and provide a theological foundation for the communion service.
Prayer and Reflection
Communion is a time for personal and communal prayer. Encourage the congregation to spend time in reflection, examining their relationship with God and others. Provide opportunities for silent prayer, as well as guided prayers led by the priest or deacon. This atmosphere of prayerfulness and introspection prepares the hearts and minds of the congregation for the sacrament.
Symbolism of Communion Elements
The bread and wine/juice are central to the communion service and carry profound symbolic significance. The breaking of the bread represents Christ's body being broken on the cross, while the wine/juice represents His shed blood. Ensure that these elements are prominently displayed and explained to the congregation, emphasizing their spiritual meaning and their connection to Christ's sacrifice.
By carefully crafting the visual, auditory, and spiritual elements of the service, you can effectively prepare an atmosphere that is conducive to worship, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the Catholic communion ritual.
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Scripture readings
Passages such as Psalm 22, Isaiah 53, Mark 15:21-29, John 19, 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, and Galatians 2:16-21 are often selected for this purpose. These passages help to set the tone for the service and prepare the congregation for the sacrament of communion.
The reading of Scripture is often accompanied by a visual demonstration of breaking bread and pouring wine or juice, symbolizing Christ's body and blood. This ritual is known as the Lord's Supper or the Last Supper, as described in Luke 22:19, where Jesus says, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
Communion services are a time for personal reflection and examination of one's relationship with God. Scripture readings that emphasize this aspect include 1 Corinthians 11:26, which states, "As often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes."
Additionally, the reading of John 3:16 is also appropriate: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." This passage reminds the congregation of God's love and the promise of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
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Hymns and songs
Firstly, it is important to select hymns and songs that are thematically appropriate for the communion service. This may include songs that reflect on the sacrifice and love of Jesus, such as "Nothing But the Blood" or "Power in the Blood." These songs serve as a reminder of the central message of communion, which is to remember the body and blood of Christ given for our salvation.
In addition to thematic relevance, the liturgical context should also be considered when choosing hymns and songs. The communion service often follows a structured order, and hymns may be incorporated at specific points to enhance the worship experience. For example, hymns may be sung during the preparation of the table, as mentioned in the Church of England's Holy Communion Service guidelines. Hymns can also be included during other parts of the service, such as the Gathering or the Liturgy of the Word, especially when led by a deacon, reader, or authorized lay person.
The length and complexity of the hymns and songs can also be a factor. Some communion services may opt for shorter, simpler hymns that are easy for the entire congregation to follow and participate in. On the other hand, more elaborate and lengthy hymns may be chosen for their theological depth and ability to create a solemn atmosphere.
Lastly, the musical accompaniment for the hymns and songs should be considered. Traditional communion services may utilize instruments such as organs or pianos, while more contemporary settings might incorporate guitars or other modern instruments. The choice of accompaniment should align with the overall style and preferences of the congregation.
By carefully selecting hymns and songs that are thematically appropriate, liturgically contextual, and musically suitable, Catholic communion services can be elevated to create a meaningful and engaging worship experience for the congregation. These musical elements play a crucial role in helping believers reflect on the sacrifice of Christ and strengthen their relationship with God.
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Passing out the elements
When passing out the elements to seated participants, it is best to have two ushers for each cluster of rows—one for each end of the row. The plate should be passed by Usher 1 on one end of the row, then received by Usher 2 at the opposite end. Usher 2 then moves on to the next row in that cluster by passing the plate in the opposite direction to be received by Usher 1. If passing the bread and juice on separate plates, completely pass the first element to a cluster of rows before beginning to pass the second. Small cups are the easiest way to quickly distribute communion wine or juice to a large auditorium of seated people. Clear plastic cups are commonly used, specifically designed for one-time communion use. Pre-filled plastic cups of juice that include a small wafer in the lid are also available. These cups are efficient for large groups but have a more manufactured feel.
If you are using cups that are not pre-filled, it is faster to use a cup filler designed for this purpose. A tray is needed to easily pass the cups and bread to crowds of people. There are trays available that can hold both cups and bread, enabling you to only have to pass down each row once. If you are using separate plates for the bread and cups, the bread should be passed first, then the cups. The bread is passed down each row, then the cups are passed down each row. If using glass cups, they should be carefully washed, dried, and stored after each use.
The elements are typically passed out by ushers or deacons, who come forward to pass the bread and juice to everyone in the congregation, asking everyone to wait before consuming either. The elements are then consumed by the congregation, who, by partaking of the bread and wine/juice, remember the body and blood of Christ.
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