What is Communion?

On the night before he died, Jesus had a meal with his closest followers to celebrate the Jewish festival of Passover. During that meal, when he broke bread and shared a cup of wine, he told his followers to “do this in memory of me”.

From that time, sharing bread and wine in memory of Jesus has been a Christian practice across nearly all the strands of the Christian church. The tradition has various names: “Communion”, “Holy Communion”, “Mass”, “The Lord’s Supper” or “Eucharist”. The way in which it is performed varies, with some expressing its importance through elaborate ceremony, while others prefer simplicity.  Some use wine, others choose a non-alcoholic alternative. Some use real bread, others use wafers. Some take communion weekly, others less frequently.

How often is communion celebrated at Gold Hill?

The different gatherings each have their own approach to including communion when they meet. The 8.45 Sunday gathering includes communion every week.  Other gatherings include communion every less frequently.  You can check what is planned for This Sunday.

How do we celebrate communion at Gold Hill?

At Gold Hill, we generally adopt a simple and flexible approach, which will vary according to the circumstances. We use non-alcoholic wine or fruit juice.  Sometimes we invite people to the front to receive communion, and at other times we pass it around the congregation. The leader of the gathering will explain the process.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have stopped using a single cup and breaking a single loaf of bread. We currently provide wrapped single servings. Some people choose to bring their own bread and drink.

Not everyone at any gathering will take communion. Everyone is free to opt-out of that part of the gathering without embarrassment.

Do I need to have been confirmed or baptised to take communion?

No. The only requirement to take communion is that you are a follower of Jesus.  If you know that that doesn’t describe you, then we suggest you don’t take communion. However, if you are aware that God is calling you to follow him, then the act of taking communion could be the first step in your Christian journey

Is there an age limit to take communion?

There is no lower age limit for taking communion.  Young children can decide to follow Jesus and so are eligible to take communion. We suggest that anyone under 14 should discuss their decision with their parent or guardian.

I’m housebound – can I take communion?

Yes. Please contact the church and we will arrange for a pastor or leader to visit you