On the first Sunday of every month, we celebrate the ceremony of communion, which is based on Jesus’ comments during the last supper he had with his disciples before his crucifixion:

from Matthew:

Now as they were eating, Jesus took some bread, and when he had said the blessing he broke it and gave it to the disciples.  “Take it and eat”, he said, “this is my body.”  Then he took the cup, and when he had returned thanks he gave it to them.  “Drink, all of you, from this,” he said, “for this is my blood, the blood of the covenant, which is to be poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins. [Matthew 26:26-29, New International Version]

or, from Luke:

Then he took a loaf and, after thanking God, he broke it and gave it to them, with these words, “This is my body which is given for you: do this in remembrance of me.”  So, too, he took the cup after supper with the words: “This cup is the new agreement made in my own blood which is shed for you.” [Luke 22:19-21, Phillips version]

At Ledyard Congregational Church, we believe, as do most mainstream Protestant churches, that the bread and “wine” (non-alcoholic grape juice) represent the body and blood of Jesus.  Unlike Catholic churches, we do not believe that the bread and juice actually become Jesus’ flesh and blood.  We include gluten-free bread on the plate with the regular bread.

We welcome all who believe in Jesus Christ to take communion with us.  We observe communion as a way to remember Christ’s sacrifice for us.  It is a time to pray deeply and think seriously about our faith, our lives, and Jesus’ teachings.  The pastor’s communion invokation says it nicely:

“Sisters and brothers, this table is open to all who confess Jesus as the Christ and seek to follow in Christ’s way.  Come to this sacred table not because you must, but because you may.  Come not because you are fulfilled, but because in your emptiness you stand in need of God’s mercy and assurance.  Come not to express an opinion, but to seek a presence and to pray for a spirit.  Come to this table then, as you are.  Partake and share.  For this table is spread for you and me that we might again know that God has come to us, shared our common lot, and invited us to walk together as Christ’s disciples.”