What is Communion?
Communion is another term for the Lord’s Supper. It is also, in some traditions, called the Eucharist. It is a sacred meal that we participate in monthly with the Lord, Jesus Christ. This meal is done in remembrance of what Christ did for us when he sacrificed himself, body and blood, for us on the cross for the remission of our sins. Below are some terms you may hear us say at Halls First Methodist. Understanding what we mean when we say these terms will better help you understand how we understand Communion. Understand?
 
Sacrament:
At Halls First Methodist, we consider Holy Communion a sacrament (we believe it is a sacred meal; has special meaning and purpose), a visible sign of an invisible grace, instituted by Christ.

Real Presence:
We affirm the real presence of Christ in the sacrament, meaning Christ is spiritually present in the elements and in the experience of receiving Communion, though not in a literal, physical way. In other words, we believe Christ is literally, spiritually present in this meal. But we do NOT believe the bread actually becomes Christ’s physical body, nor does the wine (juice) become his physical blood.

Symbolic Representation:
Instead, we believe the bread and wine (or juice) are symbolic representations of Christ's body and blood, broken and poured out for all of humanity.

Means of Grace:
Communion is a means through which God's grace is received, strengthening our faith and fostering in us, a deeper connection with Christ.

Open Communion:
We practice what is called, “Open Communion.” That just means that we believe that Communion is Christ's Supper, not the church's, and therefore, the table is open to all who seek to respond to Christ's love and seek to live a new life of peace and love with Him as the Lord of their life.

Thanksgiving:
The Eucharist, just a fancy term often used for Holy Communion, means "thanksgiving," and the sacrament is a time for expressing gratitude for God's gifts of creation and salvation.

Communion as a Meal:
Communion is understood as a sacred meal, where believers partake in the body and blood of Christ, symbolically, and are united with Christ and each other.

Open Invitation:
While some churches may have specific practices, Halls First Methodist Church welcomes all, regardless of denomination affiliation, who seek God, to the communion table, including children.
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Not Exclusive:
We believe that all are welcome because deciding who is worthy to receive Communion is not the role of the church, as it is God's gift.