Communion

Communion

Depending on the denomination there are several different terms used to describe what is known as the Holy Communion. For example, the Roman Catholic Church refers to it as the Mass, the Orthodox Church calls it the Divine Liturgy. Despite the different names given by these churches both believe that the bread and wine that is consecrated by the head of church known as the priest, become the blood and body of Jesus. It is believed by these Church’s that at the Holy Communion when this act is carried out that once again the sacrifice made by Jesus to forgive their sins is repeated. It is believed that both the wine and bread help to gain eternal life and forgiveness of god for those taking part.

Furthermore, the Free churches who also believe in the Holy Communion refer to it as the Lord’s Supper, or the Breaking of Bread. These names draw upon Jesus and his disciples during the last supper, where Jesus was the host. Therefore the followers of the Free Church’s believe that when the Holy Communion takes place that they are guests of Jesus for the Lord’s Supper. Additionally during the Lord’s Supper and emphasis is placed on sharing a meal with fellow followers and placing an importance on fellowship. They believe that through these actions and remembering the sacrifices of Jesus their faith is strengthened.

The Salvation Army and Quakers however don’t believe in the ritual of the Holy Communion. They argue there is no need to celebrate this and hold the belief that God is brought through the inner gift of the Holy Spirit and there is no outward physical action needed. Additionally, the hold the belief that every meal should remind fellow Christians of the Last Supper and that Jesus is always present in the hearts of the believers.