communion
Celebrating Holy Communion at Wheatland Salem Church
Communion is celebrated on the first weekend of the month at all worship services. Everyone is welcome to participate, regardless of religious affiliation.
What is going on when we celebrate Holy Communion together?
We believe that Holy Communion is a sacrament -- it is something visible that invites us to receive the invisible grace of God.
Sounds pretty "churchy". What does it mean?
We believe that when we gather to worship and participate together in the sacrament of Holy Communion, we are experiencing God's activity in our lives in at least six ways:
Thanksgiving:
As the Prayer of Thanksgiving before communion recounts God's mighty acts of salvation, we offer our gratitude for the gift of salvation (Acts 2:46-47a). God knows our name and has provided for our redemption...so we are grateful!
Community:
We are reminded powerfully of the gathered community of believers—those who are standing right next to us, those who are sharing Holy Communion in another land using a different language, and those who have gone before us. It is the whole community of believers on earth and in heaven. As Christians we are placed in a family of faith that spans all times and all places...so we are not alone. We're included!
Presence:
As we recall the death and resurrection of Christ in the past we also receive his real presence with us here and now. Just as sure as Jesus died and rose again long ago, he is alive right now. Holy Communion is a recognition that Jesus Christ is with us today.
Sacrifice:
The Bible is very clear that our sin is dealt with by Christ's sacrifice. And the Bible is equally clear that we are invited to devote ourselves as "living sacrifices" (Romans 12:2) to be used by God in the work of redemption, reconciliation, and justice. Our lives count for God's cause in the world!
Energizing:
Holy Communion is an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to have access to us so that we are equipped and empowered as witnesses of Christ wherever we go (Acts 1:8). We are given power to live as followers of Jesus Christ!
Waiting:
There is a lot of waiting in our lives. Holy Communion reminds us that we are waiting for the return of Christ at the end of history; we're waiting to be gathered at the Lord's heavenly table with all believers from every language, race, and nation. Heaven is home and Holy Communion is a reminder of the impending future. We know where history is going!
Sure, it's just a bit of bread and a little grape juice...but there's a lot of food for the soul packed into Holy Communion.