Communion
Why does it seem we have to have Communion in order to worship?
How come we have Holy Communion so often any more?
Why does it seem we have to have Communion in order to worship? I grew up in a tradition where communion was served about six times a year, and I think we had greater respect for the rite.
The obvious answer is, we don't have to celebrate the Lord's Supper in order to worship. But as we have rediscovered our catholic roots and reality, we've come to appreciate that when the Eucharist isn't part of our weekly worship we miss a dimension of God's gift to us that we profoundly need.
The rich depth and multiple dimensions of communion are constantly being re-experienced among us. Less frequent celebrations of the Lord's Supper took place when we emphasized the sacrament's penitential dimensions, necessitating long, serious, contemplation of our sins. When a congregation's members are nourished by solid textual preaching and teaching, they long for the Lord's Supper. For a careful and complete treatment of this issue I refer you to our church's statement on "The Use of the Means of Grace".
The need for consistent availability of Communion is reflected in the parable of the Prodigal Son. The Eucharist is a "welcome home" party thrown every Sunday on the off-chance that a hungry, lonely, lost brother or sister has come home for a life-giving meal. God won't be satisfied until everyone comes to this party, this family reunion. The sign across the front of this church should say: "Jesus welcomes sinners and eats with them. Come on in — party in progress."
The Lutheran | July 2001 | Since You Asked
By Wayne Weissenbuehler