The Sacrament of Holy Communion
The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 6–31; This Holy Mystery (2004)
Holy Communion (also called the Lord's Supper or Eucharist) is central to United Methodist worship. We practice an open table — all who seek God's grace are welcome, regardless of age, membership, or denomination. This reflects our conviction that it is Christ who invites, not the church.
United Methodists affirm the real presence of Christ in the bread and cup without defining exactly how that presence occurs. We trust the mystery.
An Open Table
The United Methodist Church practices open Communion. All who intend to lead a Christian life, together with their children, are invited to receive the bread and cup. We have no barriers to the table — it is the Lord's table, not ours, and Christ invites all who seek his grace.
The Meaning of Communion
In the Sacrament of Holy Communion, Jesus Christ is present through the Holy Spirit to nourish, sustain, and transform us. We remember Christ's life, death, and resurrection. We experience God's grace in the present moment. And we anticipate the heavenly banquet — the feast that awaits us in God's coming kingdom.
A Means of Grace
John Wesley commended "constant communion" — receiving the Lord's Supper as often as possible. He considered it one of the chief means of grace, alongside prayer, Scripture reading, fasting, and Christian fellowship. The United Methodist Church encourages congregations to celebrate Communion frequently.
Source: The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 6–31; This Holy Mystery (2004)
Related Documents
The Sacrament of Baptism
The Wesleyan Concept of Grace
Membership Vows
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