about communion

What is communion?

Our Lord Jesus invites all people to come to Him.  In this Holy Meal, He specifically invites those who trust in Him to receive not only bread and wine, but also His body and blood for the forgiveness of their sins (Matt. 26:26-28). Therefore, if we confess our sins and trust in Jesus as our Savior, He is inviting us to receive this personal assurance: "Your sins are forgiven!" (1st Jn 1:7-9)

The Bible offers guidance on preparation for the Lord's Supper: the importance of examining not only our faith in Jesus and our understanding of Communion but also our attitudes, our actions, and our relationships (1 Corin. 10:6-17 and 1:17-34).  Baptism and instruction in the Christian faith are the formal steps in the process of preparation (Acts 2:38-42).  However, personal preparation is still an individual matter between every believer and his Lord.

Taking communion at Community of hope:

Guests who desire to commune here on a regular basis are asked to express their oneness in the faith by speaking to our pastor or by attending a membership class. In this congregation, basic Christian instruction is normally provided to youth in first communion/confirmation classes for 5th - 8th graders and in adult membership classes for all others.