26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take and eat. This is my body.” 27 He took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from this, all of you. 28 This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many so that their sins may be forgiven.
Reflection
This week, we are reflecting on the importance of Holy Communion in the Christian tradition. Most of us think of denominations like the Roman Catholic Church, the Episcopal Church, the Orthodox Churches, and the Lutheran Church as those who place a high emphasis on communion. But in reality, it’s important to all of us!
The Founder of Methodism, John Wesley, believed that Holy Communion was an vital way to worship and connect with God. In fact, he published a sermon entitled “The Duty of Constant Communion” which made the case for Christians receiving the sacrament as often as possible.
I’ll be honest, I never understood the fascination with Holy Communion, until I experienced a season where I spent several extended periods at a Catholic retreat center. A cohort I was meeting with for leadership development met there for something like 16 days over two years. It was a transformative experience.
Usually Communion among Roman Catholics is an occasion for me to feel angry. Often I hear the message – either subtly or not-so-subtly – that only Catholics are welcome at the table. But this retreat center was different. The nuns who ran the center (shout out to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace!) made it clear that they had gone out of their way to only invite priests to preside at the table who held the view that ALL should be welcome. And so with this invitation, I partook every day, in a beautiful chapel overlooking the ocean.
Suddenly, I understood all those faithful Catholics who go to daily mass. I found this way of beginning my day profound and inspiring. To begin not only with private prayer, but in a worshipping community where we received Holy Communion made me feel part of something much bigger than myself.
And of course, Holy Communion does invite us to something bigger – namely, a connection with the Church of Jesus Christ through the last 2000 years. At all times and in all places, this ritual meal has defined Christian worship, going the whole way back to the 12 apostles.
When I partake, I remember that I am part of a story that’s been happening for millennia, and I know that I am not alone in my faith. Communion is our invitation into Jesus’ story, and I believe we are called take that invitation seriously.
by Joe Monahan
For Pondering and Prayer
Did you ever have a profound experience of communion? Where did it happen? Who were you with? How did you feel?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, we thank you for giving us this amazing gift of your presence in the bread and cup. Each time we receive it, help us to find you there, remembering that we are not alone in our faith. Amen.
