Coming Forward for Communion

          Just as our church family is gradually becoming more diverse, so are the cups and plates from which we may receive the bread and juice of communion! The Worship Committee and Deacons have provided two simple stoneware sets - one chalice and plate each - which go nicely with our sanctuary. And this will help us to prepare for a new alternative for serving communion.

          The Session has endorsed a Worship Committee request to offer this alternative on Sunday, January 1 (which has obviously already happened) and again on Sunday, April 2. The words of the service itself will be according to one of our familiar orders. At the time for serving the bread and juice, the congregation will be invited forward to receive the elements. Details are still being worked out, but one possibility involves a wide circle around the Lord’s Table, maybe two people deep if needed. There will be two pairs of servers – one of each pair will have the plate of bread, the other the chalice of juice. Those receiving will be offered first the bread; and after taking a piece, the chalice. The server will hold this while the worshiper dips the piece of bread in the juice, and then eats it right away (this is referred to as receiving by “intinction”).

          Why try this method? The committee offers several reasons. One is that folks who have experienced communion in a circle at the table on Maundy Thursday for a number of years find it meaningful both to come forward (a physical responding to the Lord’s invitation) and to be in a circle with the members of the faith community. A common cup (or, in this case, two) symbolizes our oneness in Christ. And this way of sharing the sacrament is increasingly used among Presbyterians, including on the occasions when Boston Presbytery celebrates communion.

          There is nothing inherently “Protestant” or “Catholic” about a way of serving communion. In our Book of Order, the Directory for Worship says:

          A common cup may be offered to all who wish to partake of it; several cups may be offered and shared; or individual cups may be prepared for distribution Rather than drink from a common cup, communicants may dip the broken bread into the cup (W-3.3616c).

          The Worship Committee and the Session are aware that equally heartfelt reasons may be offered for preferring to receive communion in the pews, with individual cups. Members will have an opportunity to share their responses to this alternative method. Session will determine whether to continue to offer this style of communing, and how often (it would not be every month).

          Meanwhile, let’s recall that communion gives the church a grace-filled means to be one – uniting in our diversity with Jesus Christ. And being a community is as much about respecting others’ preferences (when they are expressions of faith) as speaking up for one’s own. Come, for the table is ready.

Peace,

Rod