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The Lord's Supper

Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one loaf, we who are many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf.   1 Corinthians 10:16-17

 

A THOUGHT OR TWO

The Lord’s Supper is known in Christendom by several names: Holy Communion, the Sacrament of the Altar, and the Eucharist to name a few. By whatever name you may know it best, it is the very body and blood of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. His own words, as recorded by Matthew, Mark and Luke, testify that this meal is more than simply bread and wine. It is more than just a moment to remember Christ’s suffering and death. And because it is more than a distant memory or the common earthly elements (bread and wine),  Christians are compelled to take it often for the forgiveness of our sins Matthew 26:28 May the Lord inspire you to receive this meal with a true heart and a right spirit receiving its many benefits and blessings!

…in Him!

Pastor Kevin Wyssmann

 

WHAT WE BELIEVE

There are many notions and understandings about the Lord's Supper. That you might know our Scriptural

convictions and be comfortable with our theology and practice, we would ask that if you are a guest with us or if it has been some time since you last communed, that you visit with our pastor before taking Communion at our altar.

It is our belief that Jesus Christ is really present in this holy meal - that in eating and drinking bread and wine, we receive Christ's true body and blood! Those who wish to take the Lord's Supper should first:

  • Be baptized in the Christian faith
  • Humbly confess their sins, and desire the Lord's forgiveness
  • Be committed, by the power of the Holy Spirit, to live a Christ-like life
  • Recognize that in, with and under bread and wine are the very body and blood of our Savior
  • Desire to express our oneness in Christ as members of our Lord's Church.

 

INSTRUCTION

Paul mentions in his writing regarding the Lord’s Supper that it is important that one should never take the Supper in an “unworthy manner”. 1 Corinthians 11:27 In the verses that follow, the apostle outlines two significant components of receiving the Lord’s Supper rightly: examination, and a correct recognition of what it is.  That each person who communes might receive the blessings of partaking of the Supper, Living Water Lutheran offers classes to examine what Scripture reveals about this meal as well as the other chief teachings of the Christian faith. We call the classes “The Wellness Within Workshop” for adults and “Confirmation” for junior high youth.  Please contact the church office regarding the day and times that the next set of classes is being offered.

 

EXAMINATION

Paul writes, “A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.” 1 Corinthians 11:28. Introspection, repentance, confession and absolution are common components of examination. Realizing the sin that surrounds each of us and invades all of us, our need for a Savior and the amazing and miraculous way in which He comes to us personally in with and under the elements of bread and wine are key to the Biblical understanding of what it means to examine ourselves.  In addition to corporate confession each Sunday, Living Water Lutheran offers private confession as well. A sample order of service for individual confession and absolution can be found in our hymnals on page 292.  Should you desire to have your confession heard, please be encouraged to call the church office and make an appointment to meet with our pastor.

 

GUESTS

Each time we receive the Lord’s supper we are publicly proclaiming the death and resurrection of our Lord. As we commune with the members of the congregation, we are also declaring that we are one in hope, faith and doctrine. If an individual is a guest, is not a communicant at Living Water or a communicant in good standing at a sister parish, we would invite them, before receiving communion at our altar, to speak with our pastor. He will be happy to counsel each person toward a right reception of the Supper.

 

FREQUENCY

Jesus invites us to “do this”.  Luke 22:19 The only other Scriptural directive we have is the word “often” in the King James Version of the Bible 1 Corinthians 11:26. Because the Word of God provides no further clarity, Lutheran congregations are free to determine how often is “often.” At Living Water Lutheran, the Lord’s Supper is offered at every service. Other festival services throughout the year will also be identified as “Communion Sundays.”  For more exact detail, contact the church office for the communion schedule.

 

PRIVATE COMMUNION

Jesus insists that wherever two or three are gathered in His name, there He is! Matthew 18:20  When it becomes difficult to gather with the congregation for communion celebration, congregants may request that communion be brought to them. Whether in your home, in the hospital or during the week at the church, all you need to do is make the request through the church office and the pastor will arrange a time and a place that works best for you.

 

SPECIAL DIETARY CONSIDERATIONS

For those with dietary concerns, gluten-free wafers and nearly non-alcoholic wine are available each time we commune. Please be encouraged to ask an usher for assistance if you have any questions.