Communion
Preaching
HANDBOOK FOR SPECIAL SERVICES
From its inception to the present, Communion has been a vital part of the worship and practice of the Christian church. Throughout the centuries varied interpretations have arisen concerning its significance. The early Church Fathers' belief that "the union with Christ given and confirmed in the Supper was as real as that which took place in the incarnation of the Word in human flesh"1 laid the foundation for the doctrine of transubstantiation. The Reformers presented several other views. Martin Luther believed that Christ's presence was "in, with, and under" the elements, but denied that this rite could give salvation to the participant. Thus was born the doctrine of consubstantiation. Also coming out of this period of church history was the belief that Communion was just a memorial.
There are also a variety of methods for the observance of Communion. The first century church observed Communion along with a love feast. Some observe Communion with only the clergy participating of both the cup and the bread, while the laity take only of the bread. The posture during the observance differs from group to group with some kneeling, some standing, and some sitting.
Even the title given to the observance has varied. The early church referred to it as the "breaking of bread." Succeeding generations have called it the Eucharist, Holy Communion, and the Lord's Supper. In spite of the variance in name, interpretation of significance, and method the church has always recognized the importance of communion in the life of the believer.
PURPOSE
The observance of communion fulfills a threefold purpose in the life of the believer. First, it is an indication of our obedience to Christ's command. The imperative with continuing action used in 1 Corinthians 11 does not allow the believer the option of choosing whether or not he should take Communion. Obedience to Christ's commands reveals our love (1 John 5:3); therefore, the "born-again" believer participates in this observance as a sign of his love for God.
Second, Communion is a time for remembering the suffering and substitutionary death of Christ. There is a tendency for the believer to regard the suffering and death of Jesus as a cold fact of Christianity rather than as a continual reality that daily produces the abundant life. Even at Easter it is easy to bypass Christ's suffering in our haste to celebrate his resurrection and victory over death. Thinking of the crucifixion serves as a reminder of the penalty which sin necessitates and should produce a greater love toward Christ.
Third, communion is a time for spiritual introspection and renewal. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11 that no one is to participate in Communion who is not in the proper relationship with God; therefore, everyone is to examine his own heart to see his true spiritual condition. The significance which is given to this examination of self is evidenced by the number of people who will refuse to have Communion when it is offered, but in a regular service may have no second thoughts about their spiritual condition.
This threefold purpose should be presented to the congregation at regular intervals so that new members, as well as children who are growing up, will have an understanding of this ordinance. Once a year should not be too frequent. It can be done through the pulpit, the Christian Education department, or by a special emphasis program. The understanding which each person should have is that communion is not just a ritual or practice of the church, but rather that it is an act of worship which contributes to the spiritual growth of each person who participates.
FREQUENCY
When Christ instituted Communion, he did not specify the number of times or dates for the observance. The narrative in the book of Acts does indicate the New Testament church practiced it frequently (Acts 2:42, 46). Here too, the frequency varies from church to church Some have Communion only once a year, usually during the Easter season or on New Year's Eve at the "Watch Night" service. Others celebrate communion semi-annually, quarterly, and even monthly. Certain denominations have established guidelines and traditions for their churches while others leave it to the discretion of the pastor.
In considering the frequency of Communion, each pastor should annually evaluate his church program to see if the current observance of Communion is sufficient and at proper times to produce the greatest amount of spiritual benefit. If his church observes Communion only at Easter, it may be beneficial to consider having Communion during Thanksgiving. Another excellent time to insert a Communion service is in the fall at the beginning of the school year. What a tremendous way to give high school and college students a spiritual uplift prior to their going off to their secular academic pursuits.
It is impossible to state categorically how many times Communion should be offered in the church. We can say, though, that the minimum is once a year, but from there each pastor should work with his particular congregation. The frequency of Communion is not of utmost importance. Obedience to Christ's command and spiritual growth are the desired goals.
TIME
The celebration of Communion can be the main emphasis of any service. Presently Communion is most often offered in the morning worship service, since it is the best attended and some churches have only the one main service per week. The Lord's Supper can also be held at any other time as a special service in itself. This can be an extraordinary change and give further emphasis to its importance. A much neglected time for this observance is the Sunday evening service and the midweek service. Evening services are ideal times for having Communion in a manner which differs from the traditional Sunday morning celebration. This allows the pastor to introduce new methods without sacrificing the old with which the congregation is identified.
The Lord's Supper is usually held in conjunction with a worship service. This furthers the need for special attention in the planning of the service. There must be adequate time for participation, meditation, and prayer, all of which are vital to the success of this service. If the pastor is scheduled to speak as usual, then one must be careful that no injustice is done to the sermon or to the observance of Communion. Neither one should be rushed, so that the importance of each is retained. At the same time the congregation should not be kept in the service much longer than the normal service length. People will allow up to ten minutes of overrun, but after that, the normal result is a lack of interest or irritation, both of which are not conducive to worship. To overcome this, the pastor should elect not to speak, or should prepare a sermonette or devotional of appropriate length and nature.
ELEMENTS
Unsweetened grape juice is the usual fruit of the vine used by evangelical groups to represent the blood of Christ. To further the symbolism of the blood, a red grape juice can also be purchased. Since most people relate with red for blood, the use of this type can be very effective. It is available at almost any supermarket in the same section as the regular grape juice.
Different substances are used to represent the body of Christ. Unleavened bread, leavened bread, and commercial wafers are used according to the method of observance and, sometimes, on the basis of availability. The commercial wafer should be considered by all for most Communion services. It is inexpensive, easy to handle, and versatile. For example, if you read that Jesus broke the bread and then have everyone break their wafers, a snapping sound is produced which will heighten the overall atmosphere. The wafers can be purchased at a local Bible book store or directly through a church supply house.
EQUIPMENT
The amount and type of equipment is determined by the size of the group to be served and the serving arrangement. The following are basic items for any Communion service.
1. Communion table: It should be substantial and appropriate in size for the amount of items that must be placed on it. Too large a table gives an empty look while too small a table looks cluttered and increases the possibility of an accident while serving. Clean linen is also necessary for the Communion table.
2. Communion glasses: These can be either the glasses or the disposable plastic containers. The disposable plastic containers appear to be easier to hold than those made of glass. Filled disposable communion glasses can also be purchased.
3. Serving trays for the Communion glasses: The regular communion tray with the insets for the
glasses is preferred. A flat silver tray could also be used, but the chances of spilling when bumped are so great that it would be best that the flat tray not be used unless in an emergency.
4. Bread trays: For most communion services one bread tray is not sufficient. The larger the group, the more trays that are needed to quickly serve everyone. Two trays are sufficient to serve 100 people in about three or four minutes. One linen cloth is needed to cover each bread tray.
Each church should have a Communion set as an item of inventory. This will take care of several of the basic equipment needs. The set should be stored in the same place each time after it has been used. An appropriate place is the fellowship hall kitchen.
PREPARATION
The planning of the Communion service should start several weeks prior to the set date. The congregation should be notified of the intended service no less than one week in advance. A three week notice is ideal for building toward the service. The first announcement can just state the fact of the Communion service. Subsequent announcements should be special invitations and encouragements for participating in this time of worship. These notifications can be through pulpit announcements, the church bulletin, posters, bulletin board displays, and special reminder mailouts. This advance notification of the service allows members to change or revise plans they may have had to be absent on that particular day. It also is a source of encouragement to attend to those who are careless in their attendance.
If at all possible, one service prior to the Communion service should be used as a preparatory step. The weekly prayer service or family training service is an excellent time, but in most churches the preceding Sunday service is better so that a majority of the congregation will be
involved. This service can be directed toward Christ's suffering, personal introspection, or the purpose and blessings of observing the Lord's Supper.
Those who will be assisting the pastor in the serving should be well instructed in the procedures planned for this particular service. Proper preparation necessitates that this instruction take place at a time other than just before the service. Instruction on procedures is especially important if you vary the Communion services or if this is the first time an individual has assisted. This will avoid hesitation, confusion, or unnecessary talking, all which can be a hindrance to worship.
The preparation of the communion table and the rearranging of any church furniture should be completed in its entirety prior to the arrival of anyone for the service. It is not necessary that the pastor prepare the Communion table. In most smaller churches the pastor or his wife assumes this responsibility; however, if a member of the congregation would like to be involved in the preparation, allow him to take this responsibility. The pastor must be sure to inform this person concerning the arrangements for any particular service. Also, if it is necessary to rearrange any of the church furniture, the church janitor should be notified of these specific requirements several days in advance. The minister would be wise to check the preparations at least thirty minutes prior to the service. This will allow for any minor changes which may have to be made.
PARTICIPATION
The question of "who should participate in the Lord's Supper" must be answered by every pastor. The Scriptures show that Communion is for the believer; therefore, every "born-again" believer should participate in the Communion service. No one should partake of communion with sin in his life. To do so is to partake unworthily (1 Corinthians 11:29). Very often Christians do not have a proper understanding of what it is to take Communion unworthily. To them their finiteness, all that God has done for them, and their many failures make them unworthy. It may be necessary for the pastor to emphasize that only unforgiven sin makes us unworthy and nothing else should discourage participation in this God-ordained ceremony.
The question of "should children participate" must also be taken into consideration. Some churches have specific ages or qualifications other than being a "born-again" believer that must be met prior to the taking of Communion. It is not the intent of this section to discuss the creditability of these qualifications, but rather to offer suggestions to those who do not have any guidelines. The Scriptures, as written by the Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 11:28), require that there be self-examination prior to the celebration of Communion. This self-examination requires the exercise of understanding which would be limited in the child. On this basis, it may not be a kindness "to permit and encourage children to partake of the Lord's Supper before they have come to the years of discretion."2
It is of importance, though, that the children be included in the service. Parents should have their children with them at the Lord's Supper. The parents should explain to the children, before and after, the importance of this observance. This prepares them for the time of their own participation as well as makes them feel included. The pastor and parent must be careful not to fall in the trap of assuming that the children are too small to understand. Even the two-year olds who have been in nursery Sunday School and are taught to be quiet in the sanctuary can understand a simple explanation that "we're thinking of Jesus."
To insure that all the children receive some instruction concerning the Lord's Supper it may be necessary to draw up your own Sunday School materials for one Sunday and teach them on their own level the purpose and importance of Communion. If a children's church is held while Communion is being served to the main congregation, Communion should be the special emphasis for the children. We cannot afford to leave to assumption that the children will learn the importance of the Church's practices without being taught.
SERVING ARRANGEMENTS
Your ability to change and give variety to the Lord's Supper is not only limited by the traditions of your church, but is also subject to the size of the congregation and the church facilities. Regardless of your situation, with some ingenuity you should be able to come up with some variety. It may take considerable preparation; however, the result will more than repay you for your efforts.
Following are some possible methods for observing Communion, along with a brief discussion of their positive and negative points.
1. Single line: The congregation moves in single file past the Communion table with only one receiving Communion at a time. Many enjoy watching others take Communion and receive a spiritual blessing. This method works better with small groups. Larger groups take too long, so that those who partake first have returned to their seats, meditated, and are ready to leave when those at the end of the line have just finished partaking. If it is absolutely necessary to have it this way, the situation can be eased by having two lines, one on each side of the church, and two places of serving at the Communion table.
2. Alternate pew seating: People are seated on every other pew and then communion is served to them as they are seated or stand at their pews. This method makes it easy for the pastor's assistants to serve by passing through the empty pews. It is suitable only when the church has seating for twice as many people as are in attendance. It also may be necessary to have everyone seated by the ushers.
3. Table set for twelve: A table that will seit twelve is prepared at the front of the sanctuary. One place is usually left vacant to represent Christ. The congreation then participates in groups of ten or eleven. The success of this method will depend upon the smoothness and quickness with which the table is set for each new group and with keeping the entire congregation's attention involved in the service though they are not at that moment taking Communion.
4. Table seating for all: This service is held in the fellowship hall with everyone in attendance seated at tables. The tables should be arranged so that an inclusive feeling is radiated. A U or an E arrangement is usually the best. At each setting there should be a napkin and a filled Communion glass. A wafer may be placed on the napkin or several trays of wafers may be passed from where the pastor is conducting the service. This method can be extremely effective since it is best held in the evening when the time schedule is more flexible and in a place where it is easy to create the desired atmosphere with almost any decor.
5. Serving at the altar: Designated numbers which are in accordance to altar space come to the altar and receive Communion either standing or kneeling.
If the method chosen requires only a specific number of people per serving, a proposed plan of who would come first and so on should be developed prior to the service. The use of informed ushers to guide the people will also help these types of Communion services to be orderly. Whenever it is necessary for the congregation to move to receive Communion, the pastor must be very careful to instruct the congregation as to the procedures to be followed. If this cannot be done briefly and simply, a new method is needed.
To summarize, it should be realized that the method or variation that is chosen should be secondary to the result. The communion service should be beautiful, but not at the expense of worship and spiritual growth. There is no single right or wrong way. Each can be exactly correct if it is conducive to worship.
DECOR
A slight variation or addition to the decor of the sanctuary or fellowship hall can provide an atmosphere over and above that which is already there. This can usually be done at little or no extra expense. One of the easiest ways, except for the physical labor, is to rearrange the furniture on the stage. For example, if the pulpit is the focal point, it can be removed and the Communion table placed in its position. Seating arrangements for the pastor and his assistants may also be changed to decrease the amount of movement and allow the Communion table to receive all the attention.
Special lighting effects can be a tremendous addition. Spotlights can be used to highlight any portion of the sanctuary. They can be directed toward the Communion table, a cross, or any other fixture that may be used in the service. The interchange of colors, such as white and red, or the shutting off of the light at a speciic point also are possibilities.
The use of candles to soften or to provide all of the light never fails to produce a receptive atmosphere. Red and white candles can be used as symbols of Christ's purity and the shedding of his blood. They can be placed on the Communion table, altar rail, or along the sides of the fellowship hall or sanctuary, provided they are not a fire hazard. The pulling or opening of drapes and the use of small side lights are other means of producing special lighting.
Certain visual aids may be placed in the sanctuary as aids to remembering the suffering of Christ. A cross, crown of thorns, a whip, and a lamb are items which can be made and used in the overall program. Bulletin boards just outside of the sanctuary or fellowship haIl doors can also be used to introduce the theme which will be presented in the service.
PROGRAM
There should be continuity in the Communion service from the prelude to the postlude. The pastor should adopt a theme for the service and follow it as closely as possible throughout the entire service. He must also inform everyone who will be assisting, so they will fit in accordingly with their presentation. Short themes such as "the Blood," "the Cross," and "Suffering" are easy to develop; however, longer themes often are able to convey greater meaning.
An important aspect of the service is the bringing of the peole to the proper frame of mind prior to the actual observance. The sooner this is accomplished, the longer the time for introspection and worship. There is no simple formula that will guarantee the proper frame of mind, but there are several items that can be very helpful. A soft organ or piano prelude as the congregation arrives will discourage excessive noise as well as direct their thoughts toward the Communion service. It is especially helpful if well-known hymns and melodies are included in the prelude.
A printed handout for each person to read as he awaits - the beginning of the service can also be instrumental in initiating worship and concentration on the service. This handout can be an essay, a poem, or scattered thoughts on Communion. The order of service may be included.
The lighting can also be an influence in establishing the proper frame of mind. Darkening the area has a way of quieting people, especially if what light there is directs their attention to a central point such as a cross, the Communion table, or a picture of Christ. Each of the
previously mentioned suggestions in themselves may be sufficient to guide the thoughts of the congregation toward the theme of the service. Combined, they create an atmosphere which is extremely difficult to ignore.
The Scripture passages used should vary from one Communion service to another. Alternate the familiar passages in Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, and 1 Corinthians 11. Variety and emphasis can also be obtained through the use of Scriptures concerning the suffering and crucifixion of Christ as recorded in the Old Testament. Co-ordinating the Scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments is an excellent way to accent the theme.
The music chosen for this service should include congregational hymns as well as special musical arrangments. lt may be more meaningful if older hymns that are known by memory are chosen for the congregational selections. The placing of the music in the order of service should also be considered. Special musical arrangements to open or close the service are excellent ways to project and establish the theme. Placing a congregational hymn just prior to the partaking of the elements gives a continuous involvement of the congregation instead of the off-and-on involvement.
Other items which may contribute to the program are poems, readings, and declamations. If they are too long or not well given, they can be detrimental; however, properly chosen and placed prior to the partaking, they will blend in with the total atmosphere of worship.
Every pastor should consider using the order given in Matthew 26 as the program for a special celebration of the Lord's Supper. Beginning with verse nineteen and continuing through verse forty-six, there is a complete order of service which can be developed into a simple, yet meaningful service. This service works best with everyone seated around a table. The pastor begins reading and continues until there is a point where some action should take place. For example, when Matthew states that Jesus blesses the elements, there is prayer. After reading that
Jesus broke the bread, everyone breaks his wafer. Where Matthew speaks of a hymn, the entire group sings a well-known hymn or Psalm. This approach may appear to be - considerably different, yet a sincere appreciation develops because of following the scriptural pattern.
COMMUNION FOR SHUT-INS
No member or friend of the congregation should be deprived of participating in Communion because of extended illness or disability. These individuals need the spiritual experience of partaking in Communion, possibly to a greater degree than those who are physically healthy. It then becomes the duty of the pastor to make arrangements for individual Communion services.
The number of times which the pastor offers Communion to the shut-ins may be dependent upon the number in his congregation and their individual locations. To insure that everyone receives Communion at least once a year, the pastor should set a certain week in the church calendar for special consideration of shut-ins. This week should be apart from Christmas and Easter. Most shut-ins receive more visitation and attention during these seasons than at any other time. These also are busy times for the church. Some time during the summer may be ideal, since the vacation time often takes families away, and it is difficult for those who must remain inside or can only sit outside without movement.
The pastor can go by himself to administer Communion, but a greater sense of fellowship is provided if several others accompany him. They can be the pastor's wife, Sunday School teachers, members of visitation teams, or anyone who would enjoy being a part of this ministry. The involvement of young people in this group can be a great asset to the visit, especially if it is to an older person. The aged are overjoyed when a young person takes the time to be interested in them.
If the visit is in a home, it is easy to have special music along with the Scripture, prayer, and partaking of Communion. It may have to be eliminated, or special arrangements made with supervisors, if music is to be used in hospitals or nursing homes. Though just a few, and not within the church building, this Communion service for the shut-in can radiate the same spirit of worship and expression of God's love as one held in the sanctuary or fellowship hall.
SUMMARY
All the planning possible will not guarantee the success of a Communion service, unless those participating allow themselves to worship; however, since people can be influenced and their thoughts directed, it is the responsibility of the pastor to do his very best to present a service which makes attendance and worship irresistible. Worship is the main objective of every service. When worship does not occur in the Communion service, it is indicative of a lack of spirituality or of poor preparation for the service or of both.
There are also a variety of methods for the observance of Communion. The first century church observed Communion along with a love feast. Some observe Communion with only the clergy participating of both the cup and the bread, while the laity take only of the bread. The posture during the observance differs from group to group with some kneeling, some standing, and some sitting.
Even the title given to the observance has varied. The early church referred to it as the "breaking of bread." Succeeding generations have called it the Eucharist, Holy Communion, and the Lord's Supper. In spite of the variance in name, interpretation of significance, and method the church has always recognized the importance of communion in the life of the believer.
PURPOSE
The observance of communion fulfills a threefold purpose in the life of the believer. First, it is an indication of our obedience to Christ's command. The imperative with continuing action used in 1 Corinthians 11 does not allow the believer the option of choosing whether or not he should take Communion. Obedience to Christ's commands reveals our love (1 John 5:3); therefore, the "born-again" believer participates in this observance as a sign of his love for God.
Second, Communion is a time for remembering the suffering and substitutionary death of Christ. There is a tendency for the believer to regard the suffering and death of Jesus as a cold fact of Christianity rather than as a continual reality that daily produces the abundant life. Even at Easter it is easy to bypass Christ's suffering in our haste to celebrate his resurrection and victory over death. Thinking of the crucifixion serves as a reminder of the penalty which sin necessitates and should produce a greater love toward Christ.
Third, communion is a time for spiritual introspection and renewal. Paul warns in 1 Corinthians 11 that no one is to participate in Communion who is not in the proper relationship with God; therefore, everyone is to examine his own heart to see his true spiritual condition. The significance which is given to this examination of self is evidenced by the number of people who will refuse to have Communion when it is offered, but in a regular service may have no second thoughts about their spiritual condition.
This threefold purpose should be presented to the congregation at regular intervals so that new members, as well as children who are growing up, will have an understanding of this ordinance. Once a year should not be too frequent. It can be done through the pulpit, the Christian Education department, or by a special emphasis program. The understanding which each person should have is that communion is not just a ritual or practice of the church, but rather that it is an act of worship which contributes to the spiritual growth of each person who participates.
FREQUENCY
When Christ instituted Communion, he did not specify the number of times or dates for the observance. The narrative in the book of Acts does indicate the New Testament church practiced it frequently (Acts 2:42, 46). Here too, the frequency varies from church to church Some have Communion only once a year, usually during the Easter season or on New Year's Eve at the "Watch Night" service. Others celebrate communion semi-annually, quarterly, and even monthly. Certain denominations have established guidelines and traditions for their churches while others leave it to the discretion of the pastor.
In considering the frequency of Communion, each pastor should annually evaluate his church program to see if the current observance of Communion is sufficient and at proper times to produce the greatest amount of spiritual benefit. If his church observes Communion only at Easter, it may be beneficial to consider having Communion during Thanksgiving. Another excellent time to insert a Communion service is in the fall at the beginning of the school year. What a tremendous way to give high school and college students a spiritual uplift prior to their going off to their secular academic pursuits.
It is impossible to state categorically how many times Communion should be offered in the church. We can say, though, that the minimum is once a year, but from there each pastor should work with his particular congregation. The frequency of Communion is not of utmost importance. Obedience to Christ's command and spiritual growth are the desired goals.
TIME
The celebration of Communion can be the main emphasis of any service. Presently Communion is most often offered in the morning worship service, since it is the best attended and some churches have only the one main service per week. The Lord's Supper can also be held at any other time as a special service in itself. This can be an extraordinary change and give further emphasis to its importance. A much neglected time for this observance is the Sunday evening service and the midweek service. Evening services are ideal times for having Communion in a manner which differs from the traditional Sunday morning celebration. This allows the pastor to introduce new methods without sacrificing the old with which the congregation is identified.
The Lord's Supper is usually held in conjunction with a worship service. This furthers the need for special attention in the planning of the service. There must be adequate time for participation, meditation, and prayer, all of which are vital to the success of this service. If the pastor is scheduled to speak as usual, then one must be careful that no injustice is done to the sermon or to the observance of Communion. Neither one should be rushed, so that the importance of each is retained. At the same time the congregation should not be kept in the service much longer than the normal service length. People will allow up to ten minutes of overrun, but after that, the normal result is a lack of interest or irritation, both of which are not conducive to worship. To overcome this, the pastor should elect not to speak, or should prepare a sermonette or devotional of appropriate length and nature.
ELEMENTS
Unsweetened grape juice is the usual fruit of the vine used by evangelical groups to represent the blood of Christ. To further the symbolism of the blood, a red grape juice can also be purchased. Since most people relate with red for blood, the use of this type can be very effective. It is available at almost any supermarket in the same section as the regular grape juice.
Different substances are used to represent the body of Christ. Unleavened bread, leavened bread, and commercial wafers are used according to the method of observance and, sometimes, on the basis of availability. The commercial wafer should be considered by all for most Communion services. It is inexpensive, easy to handle, and versatile. For example, if you read that Jesus broke the bread and then have everyone break their wafers, a snapping sound is produced which will heighten the overall atmosphere. The wafers can be purchased at a local Bible book store or directly through a church supply house.
EQUIPMENT
The amount and type of equipment is determined by the size of the group to be served and the serving arrangement. The following are basic items for any Communion service.
1. Communion table: It should be substantial and appropriate in size for the amount of items that must be placed on it. Too large a table gives an empty look while too small a table looks cluttered and increases the possibility of an accident while serving. Clean linen is also necessary for the Communion table.
2. Communion glasses: These can be either the glasses or the disposable plastic containers. The disposable plastic containers appear to be easier to hold than those made of glass. Filled disposable communion glasses can also be purchased.
3. Serving trays for the Communion glasses: The regular communion tray with the insets for the
glasses is preferred. A flat silver tray could also be used, but the chances of spilling when bumped are so great that it would be best that the flat tray not be used unless in an emergency.
4. Bread trays: For most communion services one bread tray is not sufficient. The larger the group, the more trays that are needed to quickly serve everyone. Two trays are sufficient to serve 100 people in about three or four minutes. One linen cloth is needed to cover each bread tray.
Each church should have a Communion set as an item of inventory. This will take care of several of the basic equipment needs. The set should be stored in the same place each time after it has been used. An appropriate place is the fellowship hall kitchen.
PREPARATION
The planning of the Communion service should start several weeks prior to the set date. The congregation should be notified of the intended service no less than one week in advance. A three week notice is ideal for building toward the service. The first announcement can just state the fact of the Communion service. Subsequent announcements should be special invitations and encouragements for participating in this time of worship. These notifications can be through pulpit announcements, the church bulletin, posters, bulletin board displays, and special reminder mailouts. This advance notification of the service allows members to change or revise plans they may have had to be absent on that particular day. It also is a source of encouragement to attend to those who are careless in their attendance.
If at all possible, one service prior to the Communion service should be used as a preparatory step. The weekly prayer service or family training service is an excellent time, but in most churches the preceding Sunday service is better so that a majority of the congregation will be
involved. This service can be directed toward Christ's suffering, personal introspection, or the purpose and blessings of observing the Lord's Supper.
Those who will be assisting the pastor in the serving should be well instructed in the procedures planned for this particular service. Proper preparation necessitates that this instruction take place at a time other than just before the service. Instruction on procedures is especially important if you vary the Communion services or if this is the first time an individual has assisted. This will avoid hesitation, confusion, or unnecessary talking, all which can be a hindrance to worship.
The preparation of the communion table and the rearranging of any church furniture should be completed in its entirety prior to the arrival of anyone for the service. It is not necessary that the pastor prepare the Communion table. In most smaller churches the pastor or his wife assumes this responsibility; however, if a member of the congregation would like to be involved in the preparation, allow him to take this responsibility. The pastor must be sure to inform this person concerning the arrangements for any particular service. Also, if it is necessary to rearrange any of the church furniture, the church janitor should be notified of these specific requirements several days in advance. The minister would be wise to check the preparations at least thirty minutes prior to the service. This will allow for any minor changes which may have to be made.
PARTICIPATION
The question of "who should participate in the Lord's Supper" must be answered by every pastor. The Scriptures show that Communion is for the believer; therefore, every "born-again" believer should participate in the Communion service. No one should partake of communion with sin in his life. To do so is to partake unworthily (1 Corinthians 11:29). Very often Christians do not have a proper understanding of what it is to take Communion unworthily. To them their finiteness, all that God has done for them, and their many failures make them unworthy. It may be necessary for the pastor to emphasize that only unforgiven sin makes us unworthy and nothing else should discourage participation in this God-ordained ceremony.
The question of "should children participate" must also be taken into consideration. Some churches have specific ages or qualifications other than being a "born-again" believer that must be met prior to the taking of Communion. It is not the intent of this section to discuss the creditability of these qualifications, but rather to offer suggestions to those who do not have any guidelines. The Scriptures, as written by the Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 11:28), require that there be self-examination prior to the celebration of Communion. This self-examination requires the exercise of understanding which would be limited in the child. On this basis, it may not be a kindness "to permit and encourage children to partake of the Lord's Supper before they have come to the years of discretion."2
It is of importance, though, that the children be included in the service. Parents should have their children with them at the Lord's Supper. The parents should explain to the children, before and after, the importance of this observance. This prepares them for the time of their own participation as well as makes them feel included. The pastor and parent must be careful not to fall in the trap of assuming that the children are too small to understand. Even the two-year olds who have been in nursery Sunday School and are taught to be quiet in the sanctuary can understand a simple explanation that "we're thinking of Jesus."
To insure that all the children receive some instruction concerning the Lord's Supper it may be necessary to draw up your own Sunday School materials for one Sunday and teach them on their own level the purpose and importance of Communion. If a children's church is held while Communion is being served to the main congregation, Communion should be the special emphasis for the children. We cannot afford to leave to assumption that the children will learn the importance of the Church's practices without being taught.
SERVING ARRANGEMENTS
Your ability to change and give variety to the Lord's Supper is not only limited by the traditions of your church, but is also subject to the size of the congregation and the church facilities. Regardless of your situation, with some ingenuity you should be able to come up with some variety. It may take considerable preparation; however, the result will more than repay you for your efforts.
Following are some possible methods for observing Communion, along with a brief discussion of their positive and negative points.
1. Single line: The congregation moves in single file past the Communion table with only one receiving Communion at a time. Many enjoy watching others take Communion and receive a spiritual blessing. This method works better with small groups. Larger groups take too long, so that those who partake first have returned to their seats, meditated, and are ready to leave when those at the end of the line have just finished partaking. If it is absolutely necessary to have it this way, the situation can be eased by having two lines, one on each side of the church, and two places of serving at the Communion table.
2. Alternate pew seating: People are seated on every other pew and then communion is served to them as they are seated or stand at their pews. This method makes it easy for the pastor's assistants to serve by passing through the empty pews. It is suitable only when the church has seating for twice as many people as are in attendance. It also may be necessary to have everyone seated by the ushers.
3. Table set for twelve: A table that will seit twelve is prepared at the front of the sanctuary. One place is usually left vacant to represent Christ. The congreation then participates in groups of ten or eleven. The success of this method will depend upon the smoothness and quickness with which the table is set for each new group and with keeping the entire congregation's attention involved in the service though they are not at that moment taking Communion.
4. Table seating for all: This service is held in the fellowship hall with everyone in attendance seated at tables. The tables should be arranged so that an inclusive feeling is radiated. A U or an E arrangement is usually the best. At each setting there should be a napkin and a filled Communion glass. A wafer may be placed on the napkin or several trays of wafers may be passed from where the pastor is conducting the service. This method can be extremely effective since it is best held in the evening when the time schedule is more flexible and in a place where it is easy to create the desired atmosphere with almost any decor.
5. Serving at the altar: Designated numbers which are in accordance to altar space come to the altar and receive Communion either standing or kneeling.
If the method chosen requires only a specific number of people per serving, a proposed plan of who would come first and so on should be developed prior to the service. The use of informed ushers to guide the people will also help these types of Communion services to be orderly. Whenever it is necessary for the congregation to move to receive Communion, the pastor must be very careful to instruct the congregation as to the procedures to be followed. If this cannot be done briefly and simply, a new method is needed.
To summarize, it should be realized that the method or variation that is chosen should be secondary to the result. The communion service should be beautiful, but not at the expense of worship and spiritual growth. There is no single right or wrong way. Each can be exactly correct if it is conducive to worship.
DECOR
A slight variation or addition to the decor of the sanctuary or fellowship hall can provide an atmosphere over and above that which is already there. This can usually be done at little or no extra expense. One of the easiest ways, except for the physical labor, is to rearrange the furniture on the stage. For example, if the pulpit is the focal point, it can be removed and the Communion table placed in its position. Seating arrangements for the pastor and his assistants may also be changed to decrease the amount of movement and allow the Communion table to receive all the attention.
Special lighting effects can be a tremendous addition. Spotlights can be used to highlight any portion of the sanctuary. They can be directed toward the Communion table, a cross, or any other fixture that may be used in the service. The interchange of colors, such as white and red, or the shutting off of the light at a speciic point also are possibilities.
The use of candles to soften or to provide all of the light never fails to produce a receptive atmosphere. Red and white candles can be used as symbols of Christ's purity and the shedding of his blood. They can be placed on the Communion table, altar rail, or along the sides of the fellowship hall or sanctuary, provided they are not a fire hazard. The pulling or opening of drapes and the use of small side lights are other means of producing special lighting.
Certain visual aids may be placed in the sanctuary as aids to remembering the suffering of Christ. A cross, crown of thorns, a whip, and a lamb are items which can be made and used in the overall program. Bulletin boards just outside of the sanctuary or fellowship haIl doors can also be used to introduce the theme which will be presented in the service.
PROGRAM
There should be continuity in the Communion service from the prelude to the postlude. The pastor should adopt a theme for the service and follow it as closely as possible throughout the entire service. He must also inform everyone who will be assisting, so they will fit in accordingly with their presentation. Short themes such as "the Blood," "the Cross," and "Suffering" are easy to develop; however, longer themes often are able to convey greater meaning.
An important aspect of the service is the bringing of the peole to the proper frame of mind prior to the actual observance. The sooner this is accomplished, the longer the time for introspection and worship. There is no simple formula that will guarantee the proper frame of mind, but there are several items that can be very helpful. A soft organ or piano prelude as the congregation arrives will discourage excessive noise as well as direct their thoughts toward the Communion service. It is especially helpful if well-known hymns and melodies are included in the prelude.
A printed handout for each person to read as he awaits - the beginning of the service can also be instrumental in initiating worship and concentration on the service. This handout can be an essay, a poem, or scattered thoughts on Communion. The order of service may be included.
The lighting can also be an influence in establishing the proper frame of mind. Darkening the area has a way of quieting people, especially if what light there is directs their attention to a central point such as a cross, the Communion table, or a picture of Christ. Each of the
previously mentioned suggestions in themselves may be sufficient to guide the thoughts of the congregation toward the theme of the service. Combined, they create an atmosphere which is extremely difficult to ignore.
The Scripture passages used should vary from one Communion service to another. Alternate the familiar passages in Matthew 26, Mark 14, Luke 22, and 1 Corinthians 11. Variety and emphasis can also be obtained through the use of Scriptures concerning the suffering and crucifixion of Christ as recorded in the Old Testament. Co-ordinating the Scriptures from both the Old and New Testaments is an excellent way to accent the theme.
The music chosen for this service should include congregational hymns as well as special musical arrangments. lt may be more meaningful if older hymns that are known by memory are chosen for the congregational selections. The placing of the music in the order of service should also be considered. Special musical arrangements to open or close the service are excellent ways to project and establish the theme. Placing a congregational hymn just prior to the partaking of the elements gives a continuous involvement of the congregation instead of the off-and-on involvement.
Other items which may contribute to the program are poems, readings, and declamations. If they are too long or not well given, they can be detrimental; however, properly chosen and placed prior to the partaking, they will blend in with the total atmosphere of worship.
Every pastor should consider using the order given in Matthew 26 as the program for a special celebration of the Lord's Supper. Beginning with verse nineteen and continuing through verse forty-six, there is a complete order of service which can be developed into a simple, yet meaningful service. This service works best with everyone seated around a table. The pastor begins reading and continues until there is a point where some action should take place. For example, when Matthew states that Jesus blesses the elements, there is prayer. After reading that
Jesus broke the bread, everyone breaks his wafer. Where Matthew speaks of a hymn, the entire group sings a well-known hymn or Psalm. This approach may appear to be - considerably different, yet a sincere appreciation develops because of following the scriptural pattern.
COMMUNION FOR SHUT-INS
No member or friend of the congregation should be deprived of participating in Communion because of extended illness or disability. These individuals need the spiritual experience of partaking in Communion, possibly to a greater degree than those who are physically healthy. It then becomes the duty of the pastor to make arrangements for individual Communion services.
The number of times which the pastor offers Communion to the shut-ins may be dependent upon the number in his congregation and their individual locations. To insure that everyone receives Communion at least once a year, the pastor should set a certain week in the church calendar for special consideration of shut-ins. This week should be apart from Christmas and Easter. Most shut-ins receive more visitation and attention during these seasons than at any other time. These also are busy times for the church. Some time during the summer may be ideal, since the vacation time often takes families away, and it is difficult for those who must remain inside or can only sit outside without movement.
The pastor can go by himself to administer Communion, but a greater sense of fellowship is provided if several others accompany him. They can be the pastor's wife, Sunday School teachers, members of visitation teams, or anyone who would enjoy being a part of this ministry. The involvement of young people in this group can be a great asset to the visit, especially if it is to an older person. The aged are overjoyed when a young person takes the time to be interested in them.
If the visit is in a home, it is easy to have special music along with the Scripture, prayer, and partaking of Communion. It may have to be eliminated, or special arrangements made with supervisors, if music is to be used in hospitals or nursing homes. Though just a few, and not within the church building, this Communion service for the shut-in can radiate the same spirit of worship and expression of God's love as one held in the sanctuary or fellowship hall.
SUMMARY
All the planning possible will not guarantee the success of a Communion service, unless those participating allow themselves to worship; however, since people can be influenced and their thoughts directed, it is the responsibility of the pastor to do his very best to present a service which makes attendance and worship irresistible. Worship is the main objective of every service. When worship does not occur in the Communion service, it is indicative of a lack of spirituality or of poor preparation for the service or of both.
