About Lord’s Supper

“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”  — 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NRSV)

What is the Lord’s Supper?

In the words of the “Baptist Faith and Message (1963)”, the Lord’s Supper is a symbolic meal in which we take bread and the fruit of the vine in order to remember the death of our redeemer, Jesus Christ, and anticipate his Second Coming. It is sometimes called Communion, Eucharist, The Last Supper, The Holy Supper or The Table of His Presence.

Why a meal?

Jesus shared many meals with his followers and with others who were considered outcasts. On the day of his resurrection, Jesus made himself known to his followers in the breaking of bread. In a way, we always come nearer others through shared meals (communion). In a deeper sense, God in Christ comes near us in this special meal.

Who may partake?

This meal is open to all who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, not just members of this local congregation or to Baptists only. Even (or maybe especially) those who feel unworthy, full of doubts and weakness are invited, remembering our salvation is not based on what we have done for God but what God in Christ has done for us.

Why do we do it this way?

Each congregation has its own local customs (just as each family has meal traditions). Our practice here at First Baptist, usually follow these patterns (note that during COVID we distribute the elements in a packet to limit contact):

         8:15 a.m. – Blended Worship

Our deacons serve the bread and juice, bringing the elements to the pews. This symbolizes our role as servants to each other in the power of the Spirit. We wait until all have been served, then we all partake at the same time, symbolizing our unity and mutual respect.

         10:45 a.m. – Praise and Worship

We invite everyone to the altar to receive the bread and cup. There is something powerful about Christ’s church moving together toward the family meal table. If for any reason you are unable or unwilling to come to the table during the celebration, the elements will be brought to you.

How often do we celebrate this meal?

First Baptist Church offers communion bimonthly on the first Sunday of that month (Feb., April, June, etc.), on Maundy Thursday and on Christmas Eve. We also have a ministry team which takes communion to the homebound during the holy seasons of Lent and Advent, and at others times upon request. Let us know if this ministry could be of help to you or a loved one by contacting the church by phone or email.