Holy Communion is one of the sacraments (an outward sign that conveys an inward, spiritual grace through Christ) of the Christian Church, a practice that remembers a special meal that Jesus shared with his friends and followers. Through Holy Communion we celebrate the presence of Jesus with us, and his life, death and resurrection. In the words sometimes said during our Holy Communion Service, “All those who love the Lord a little and would like to love him more are welcome.” We hope that you will feel welcome in this special time
If you have been to Holy Communion in other churches, you may feel that we do some things differently here as there are many different ways to share communion. In our congregation, various ways of serving communion are used, and the particular method used will be explained as part of the worship service.
While distancing is still needed during the COVID-19 pandemic, we will use the Communion of Empty Hands. You may share in this via the video below made in Dec 2020 during social distancing or the second one made during Easter 2020.
Historically the two main methods used, and which will be used once it is Covidsafe to do so, are:
Coming Forward – where people are directed towards the front of the church in groups, stand around the Communion table and are first served the bread (gluten-free is available), followed by the wine (non-alcoholic grape juice). If you are unable to come to the front, you can be served in your seat. One advantage of this method is that it reminds us that we are called to come and gather at the table of the Lord.
Intinction – People process to the front, take a piece of bread (pita bread), and dip it in the wine (non-alcoholic grape juice), then eat. One advantage of this method is that it combines the elements (the bread and wine) and reminds us of their unity in this special meal. (Gluten-free bread and a separate cup to ensure no cross-contamination are available).
As is Uniting Church policy, children are very welcome to participate in Holy Communion, and it is our practice at Croydon Uniting for the children involved with Sunday STEPS (our Sunday morning Christian Education program for children) to return to worship to participate in Holy Communion with their families. Also, one Sunday a year the children and young people are involved in serving Holy Communion – an occasion they take very seriously and responsibly – anticipating and enjoying the opportunity to serve others in this special way.
How some things work
Belonging… and Membership (PDF) explains the different forms of formal membership within the Uniting Church.Rosters are how the church’s work and life “ticks along”. Click here to learn How Rosters Work (PDF) at CUC.
