How do we Practice Communion?

At Bethlehem Lutheran Church, we celebrate Holy Communion as it was instituted by our Lord Jesus: the gift of his true body and blood, shed for the forgiveness of our sins (Matt. 26:26-28). By sharing this meal together, baptized Christians confess that we are unified in faith & that this bread & wine are truly Christ’s body & blood as he promised. It is not merely a symbolic or spiritual eating & drinking. Since Scripture teaches that one can receive this gift to their harm & that each person should examine oneself before eating this meal (1 Cor. 11:27-28), we ask that members & visitors alike reflect on the following questions:

  • Do I believe that with the bread & wine I receive the true body & blood of Jesus, not just a symbol of it?
  • Do I believe that I am a sinner in need of God’s grace & mercy, and that through this meal, I receive forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation through Christ?
  • Do I intend, with the help of God, to live a life that is pleasing to God?
  • Am I willing to be unified with this congregation, its confession of faith, and its life together, under the spiritual care of its pastors?

Those who answer “yes” to these questions are invited to join us at the table. There are many reasons why you might answer no to these questions as a visitor or member, none of which are cause for shame. It does not mean that you are not a Christian or that you are not welcome here. It may be that you are in active conflict with a brother or sister in Christ, especially in this community, or that you are of a different confession of faith than this congregation (Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod), or that you have not been instructed regarding communion. If one of these applies to you, or if you are unsure, we invite you to come forward with hands crossed to receive a blessing at the rail from the pastors.  Following the service, please speak to one of our pastors, as we would love for you to join us at the Lord’s Supper in the future!

Alcohol-removed white wine is in the center of each tray. Gluten Free Wafers are available upon request.