Reading: The Lord's Supper Ecuministry Liturgy

Ecuministry Liturgy of the Lord's Supper

Welcome and Call to Worship:

Ministry Officiant: "We gather together as one body in Christ to remember and celebrate the Lord's Supper. In this sacred moment, let us set aside our differences and focus on the one who invites us all to His table."

Opening Prayer:

"Gracious God, we come before You, united in our desire to follow Christ. As we partake of this holy meal, let us remember the sacrifice of Your Son and the love that calls us together as one. Amen."

Scripture Reading:

A passage that speaks to the institution of the Lord's Supper, such as 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, is read, highlighting the significance of the act across the quadrants of Christianity

Confession and Assurance of Pardon:

Ministry Officiant leads a prayer of confession, acknowledging human sinfulness and the need for God’s grace.

Assurance of pardon is given, emphasizing God's forgiveness and the cleansing power of Christ's blood.

The Peace:

Reflecting the ancient traditions, participants exchange words of peace with one another, symbolizing reconciliation and unity in the body of Christ. The Peace" is a moment within many Christian liturgies, including the Catholic tradition, where congregants are invited to express signs of peace, reconciliation, and unity to one another. This practice is rooted in Jesus' teachings on reconciliation and peace-making (Matthew 5:23-24) and his post-resurrection greeting of peace to his disciples (John 20:19). During this part of the service, individuals may shake hands, hug, or offer another sign of greeting, often accompanied by the words, "Peace be with you," echoing Jesus' own greeting.

This act serves as a powerful reminder of the call to live in peace with one another and to actively pursue reconciliation within the Christian community. It underscores the unity and love that should characterize the body of Christ, transcending any differences. The exchange of peace helps to foster a sense of community and shared purpose in worship, preparing the hearts of the congregants for communion with God and with each other in the Eucharist or Lord’s Supper that typically follows this rite.

Celebration of the Lord's Supper

The Great Prayer of Thanksgiving: A prayer that includes thanksgiving for creation and redemption, the words of institution from Scripture, and a petition for the Holy Spirit to use the sacrament to nourish and unite the believers.

The Breaking of the Bread: Symbolizing Christ's body broken for us, with the words, "This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." Distribution and Partaking: The elements are distributed to the congregation, and participants partake together, reflecting on Christ's death and resurrection.

The Pouring of the Cup: Symbolizing Christ's blood shed for the forgiveness of sins, accompanied by the words, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me." Distribution and Partaking: The elements are distributed to the congregation, and participants partake together, reflecting on Christ's death and resurrection.

Moment of Reflection and Praise:

After receiving communion, there is a time for spontaneous prayer, reflection, and praise, inviting the Holy Spirit to move within the congregation. 

Prayer of Thanksgiving:

A communal prayer of thanksgiving is offered, giving thanks for the unity and diversity of God’s family and the grace received through the sacrament.

Sending Forth:

Ministry Officiant: "As we have been nourished by the body and blood of Christ, let us go forth in the power of the Spirit to live and proclaim the Gospel."

A blessing is pronounced over the congregation, sending them out in peace and unity to love and serve the Lord.

Closing Hymn:

A hymn that celebrates the unity of the church and the hope of eternal life is sung, drawing from the rich musical traditions of the participating Christians.