Eucharist
The Eucharist, also called Holy Communion or Lord's Supper, is one of the most important Christian sacraments. The early Jewish ritual associated with a common meal included a blessing over the bread and wine. At the Last Supper Christ told his followers that the bread was his body and the wine was his blood. As Episcopalians, we celebrate Christ's body and blood every week. The phrase "the Eucharist" may refer not only to the rite but also to the "bread" and "cup" used in the rite, and, in this sense, those who take communion (communicants) may speak of "receiving the Eucharist," rather than "celebrating the Eucharist."
At St. Matthew’s everyone is welcome to the Communion table. If you are a baptized Christian, you may drink from a common cup of wine or dip the communion wafer in the cup of wine. If you are not a baptized Christian, cross your arms over your chest and you will receive a blessing.
Holy Communion for those concerned about gluten in their diet may partake in a gluten free communion wafer and non-sulfide communion wine. Individuals wishing to receive these elements, please come forward and take Communion with the ushers. Come to the altar rail closest to the organ where you will be served communion from a separate chalice and paten (small plate used to hold the communion wafer or “host”).
