Page 5 - C:\Users\Jim\AppData\Local\Temp\msoF1AE.tmp
P. 5
When our previous Elders found it time to step down, I knew it was
my time to serve. I did not take this lightly and it was a nagging
feeling, a part of my heart that was persistent and I knew God was
saying “It’s time”.
I spoke with non-serving Elders and those that were considering it
alike. I spoke with our Minister. And then we all came together
and made our promise to serve God and our church with all we
have in us. I have never felt God as powerfully as I have in the
past few years. I’ve soul searched and listened and dreamed
about the right way forward. We are indeed moving forward as a
church, let’s do so together. This vision is clear.
Today, as I write this I am also full of new knowledge from my
training on the Eucharist and Baptism. It was really wonderful
meeting those from churches around our Synod to understand that
there is no ‘one way’ to serve communion and that doing this
differently each time is absolutely right. We need to mix things up,
retell the story, ask the Holy Spirit to feed people. I sincerely hope
to bring this to you in services soon.
Points that made me really think and I’d like to reflect on in our
upcoming communion sessions are:
what is it that takes place between us and God as a result of
receiving the sacrament?
Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me” (I Cor 11:24)
The Basis of Union in the URC Manual states the following:
The United Reformed Church celebrates the gospel sacrament of
the Lord’s Supper.
When in obedience to the Lord’s command his people show forth
his sacrifice on the cross by the bread broken and the wine
outpoured for them to eat and drink, he himself, risen and
ascended, is present and gives himself to them for their spiritual
nourishment and growth in grace. United with him and with the
whole Church on earth and in heaven, his people gathered at his
table present their sacrifice of thanksgiving and renew the offering
of themselves, and rejoice in the promise of his coming in glory.
5