The Lord’s Supper at First Baptist Church


“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
                                                                                       - 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NRSV)

What is The Lord’s Supper?
In the words of the “Baptist Faith and Message (1963)”, The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic meal in which we take bread and the fruit of the vine in order to remember the death of our redeemer, Jesus Christ, and anticipate his Second Coming. It is sometimes called Communion, Eucharist, The Last Supper, The Holy Supper or The Table of His Presence.

Why a meal?
Jesus shared many meals with his followers and with others who were considered outcasts. On the day of his resurrection, Jesus made himself known to his followers in the breaking of bread. In a way, we always come nearer others through shared meals (communion). In a deeper sense, God in Christ comes near us in this special meal.

Who may partake?
This meal is open to all who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, not just members of this local congregation or to Baptists only. Even (or maybe especially) those who feel unworthy, full of doubts and weakness are invited, remembering our salvation is not based on what we have done for God but what God in Christ has done for us.

Why do we do it this way?
Each congregation has its own local customs (just as each family has meal traditions). Here at First Baptist, our deacons usually serve the bread and juice, bringing the elements to each pew. This symbolizes their role as servant leaders in the church. But the congregation also takes part by serving each other: the bread and cup are passed along the pews, reminding us that we serve each other in the strength of the Holy Spirit.

We wait until everyone has been served and all take the bread or cup to our lips at the same time, symbolizing our unity and mutual respect.

How often do we celebrate this meal?
First Baptist Church offers communion bi-monthly on the first Sunday of that month (Feb., April, June, etc.) and on Maundy Thursday and Christmas Eve. We also have a Ministry Team which takes communion to the homebound during the holy seasons of Lent and Advent, and at others time upon request. Let us know if this ministry could be of help to you or a loved one by using the "contact us" icon above or calling our church office at (573) 634-3603.