You are invited to take part in the Lord's Supper, responding to the Spirit's call, sharing the risen Christ, and receiving the grace offered freely by the Triune God who has given us this sacrament
Communion is one of two sacraments in the Church of Scotland. It is a sign and seal of God’s grace and a celebration of the incarnation. Through communion, we believe that Christ’s risen power is present among us. The sacrament of communion is celebrated periodically at all three churches. Elders serve communion to the congregation following the preaching of the Word and blessing of the elements. Since the table is a table of the Lord, any member of any branch of the church is welcome to participate. Communion is also brought periodically to those unable to attend worship.
To use an old Reformed term, Communion is also a "converting ordinance." Through Word and Sacrament together, the Holy Spirit communicates the gospel, brings us closer to God and one another, disciplines us, and empowers us for faithful living.
By employing all the senses, the Lord's Supper provides means for us to worship with our bodies as well as our intellect. To eat and drink at Christ's invitation is to dedicate ourselves to Christ and to open ourselves to transformation.
The Lord's Supper is both a memorial meal and a feast of thanksgiving. In the Supper we meet the risen Christ, commune with saints both past and present, and share a foretaste of the messianic banquet. Sealed in God's covenant of grace through eating and drinking at the Lord's Table, we are nourished to be Christ's body in the world. The Lord's Supper is indeed "the joyful feast of the people of God."
What actions comprise this sacrament?
Following Christ's example, the minister serving at the Lord's Table takes bread and wine, gives thanks for them, breaks the bread, pours the wine, and gives them to the people. The people then eat and drink.
Why are these actions important?
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By taking part in these actions we remember the life, death, and resurrection of Christ, give thanks to God, share God's love with one another, and look forward to the coming of God's reign in all its fullness. These are only some of the dimensions of this "mystery of grace."
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Communion demonstrates the unity which is God's gift to the church. When we eat and drink at the Lord's invitation, we obey his command and respond to his prayer that the church "may be one" (John 17:11). As a sign to others, the Supper is an "enacted parable" of God's reconciliation of the world through Christ.
You are invited to take part in the Lord's Supper, responding to the Spirit's call, sharing the risen Christ, and receiving the grace offered freely by the Triune God who has given us this sacrament.
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May children receive Communion?
Baptised children who are being nurtured in the Christian faith are also invited to eat (and drink), even though their understanding of the Supper will vary according to their maturity. It is recommended that parents have a discussion with them about the mystery and meaning of the sacrament,
and the Minister is happy to assist with this in any way.
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