Communion

Sacrament of Communion at The Union Church of Hinsdale, United Church of Christ

In the United Church of Christ, we celebrate two sacraments, baptism and communion. The Lord’s Supper, communion, and the Eucharist, are all names and ways of understanding the same sacrament. The Lord’s Supper reminds us of the last meal Jesus shared with his disciples prior to his death. Communion signifies the unity of all Christians in the life of Christ. Eucharist is a word that means “thanksgiving”, signifying this meal of gratitude for all that God has done for us.

We practice open communion, welcoming all to participate in this sacrament who wish to know the presence of Christ through the breaking of the bread, and to be a part of the fellowship of faith. The invitation and the call to the supper emphasize that all people of faith are welcome at this table where Christ is the host.

Children and youth adults are welcome to participate when families have adequately prepared them to understand the meaning of the sacrament and feel they are ready to do so. We affirm that this meal is God’s blessing for us all.

The visible breaking of the bread and pouring of the cup are symbolic actions that remind us that Jesus is the bread of life and that we are united in the body of Christ wherever gathered. The cup poured out reminds us of the life of Christ poured out for all of us, for the forgiveness of sin, and the renewal of our lives. Communion includes a prayer of thanksgiving for all that God has done for us and an affirmation of our willingness to serve God. The movement then of this sacrament is from table fellowship to service in the world.

Communion is served at all services on the first weekend of the month.