Faith Lutheran Church & Preschool LCMS
Holy Communion
A Word About Holy Communion
Scripture teaches that Holy Communion is a sacred act, established by Christ Himself and given to His Church. As members of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, we hold the doctrine of the Real Presence, meaning that Jesus really gives His true Body and Blood with the bread and wine, as He Himself says, "This is my body ... This is my blood ... for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:26ff.).
The Holy Scriptures also teach us to receive this meal in a way that is responsible and healthy. As overseer, St. Paul wrote – "Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment upon himself" (1 Cor.11:28-29). Out of genuine care for God's people we ask that those (1) who have not been baptized and instructed in the Faith or (2) who come from another church body, differing from this Scriptural understanding, first speak with the pastor or elder before communing that we might further discuss the right reception of this sacred meal.
To prepare ourselves for the gifts our Lord gives, Luther encouraged us to ask 3 questions:
• Do I Repent of my sins, desiring to turn away from them, back to the Lord?
• Do I Believe Jesus died and rose for me and gives me His Body and Blood this day "for the forgiveness of sins"?
• Do I Intend to use this means of grace to change my life, following His will & way?
If you would like to discuss this further please contact either pastor at 901-853-4673 or send us an email.