Holy Communion has its scriptural basis in Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples, as told in Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, and Luke 22:14-20. We hear these words in our service of Holy Communion: “In the night in which he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks; broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying: Take and eat; this is my body, given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me. Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it for all to drink, saying: This cup is the new covenant in my blood, shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin. Do this for the remembrance of me.” The created elements of bread and wine, together with God’s word, assure us that we receive forgiveness of sins and everlasting life. At Lord of Life, 5th graders receive instruction in Holy Communion at the First Communion Festival, which is held every spring. First Communion is celebrated with these 5th graders at all services the weekend following Easter. Throughout the year, Holy Communion is celebrated every Saturday, at all services on the first and third Sundays of each month, and on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Everyone who professes Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior is invited to receive the Sacrament at Lord of Life. Before and after receiving communion, it is appropriate to spend some time in prayer and meditation.

As you approach the server, hold your hands out in a cupped position. The communion server will place a wafer in your hand and you may dip it in the chalice. It is not necessary to make any response, but some people are comfortable saying “Amen” or making the sign of the cross. Ceramic chalices (usually held by a pastor) hold grape juice; gold chalices hold wine. Gluten-free wafers are available at the station nearest the piano. No matter where you are sitting, you are welcome to go to a station for grape juice or gluten-free wafers. All children (younger than 5th grade and who have not received First Communion instruction) are invited to come and receive a blessing from the server. If it is difficult for you to go to the front of the sanctuary, notify an usher or a pastor and a communion server will come to you.