Celebrate Communion
Ever since Jesus took bread, gave thanks, shared it with his disciples, and told followers to do this in his memory, Christians have reenacted the moment. Over time, services of communion have been created and discussions about just what should be included have resulted in liturgies and prayers that pass on from generation to generation. Although Christians agree on the importance of communion, the meaning and practice of communion is multi-faceted and rich.
Throughout this unit, participants will learn that communion is a physical act, a spiritual gift, and a call for a pattern for living, in which we receive the gifts of God, give thanks, break them open, and share them with one another and the world. These actions of taking, blessing, breaking, and giving are central to the unity to the body of Christ. The four dimensions of the practice that are discussed include: give thanks, share meals, be fed, and feed others.
Adult Reflection Guide
The Adult Reflection Guide is a workbook or journal for adults that allows for self-guided study of the practice. This guide engages adults through study, reflection questions, space for writing or drawing, and suggestions for practicing the practice. Included in this piece is the foundational essay, which dives even deeper into the biblical scholarship of each practice. This piece works well for individual study or for small group study when combined with the Adult Leader’s Guide.
Featured in the Adult Reflection Guide:
Give Thanks (Matthew 14:13–21; I Thessalonians 5:16–24)
Share Meals (Acts 2; 1 Corinthians 11:20–26)
Be Fed (Exodus 16:2–15; John 6:25–35)
Feed Others (Psalm 146; Matthew 25:31–46)