Holy Communion — There Is Room at the Table

September 24, 2026

Holy Communion is one of the two sacraments of the United Methodist Church. It is also called the Lord’s Supper or the Eucharist, a word that means thanksgiving. During Communion, the church remembers the meal Jesus shared with his disciples before his death. Bread and juice become visible signs of Christ’s presence, grace, and invitation.

United Methodists believe Communion is more than remembering something that happened long ago. We believe Christ is truly present and that the Holy Spirit uses this meal to nourish, heal, challenge, and unite us. We do not try to define that holy mystery too narrowly. Communion connects the story of Jesus with the living community gathered at the table today.

In United Methodist churches, the table is open. You do not have to be a member of Mosaic, a United Methodist, or even someone who has resolved every question about faith. The invitation is for all who seek to live in peace with one another, turn away from harm, and receive the grace Christ offers. Communion is not a reward for getting everything right. It is food for the journey.

United Methodist churches normally use unfermented grape juice rather than wine. This practice began in the nineteenth century as Methodists became deeply involved in the temperance movement and sought to make the table safe for people affected by alcohol. Many churches also offer gluten-free bread so that the welcome proclaimed in words is reflected in practice.

Communion often includes confession, words of forgiveness, the retelling of God’s saving work, and prayer for the Holy Spirit to be poured out upon the gifts and the people. The congregation shares one bread because we are being formed into one body. The meal sends us back into the world to become signs of grace for others.

An open table should also challenge every form of exclusion beyond worship. If we receive bread beside people whose lives differ from ours, we cannot honestly leave the sanctuary and support a world where some people are denied food, safety, dignity, healthcare, housing, or belonging. The Communion table shows us the kind of community God is creating and asks us to help build it.

At Mosaic, when we say everyone is welcome at the table, we mean everyone. Bring your faith, your doubt, your questions, your wounds, and your hope. There is room for you.