Expert: Dean Gade - 10/10/2006

Question
I am doing some research about the Christian practice of observing the Lord's Supper, also called by many other names, including communion.

Do you have any information regarding the differences in the way different denominations observe this? I've heard that some churches use water, others use wine, while others use grape juice.  Thanks.

Answer
I am not familiar with all Christian denominations in their practice of observing the Lord's Supper.  As a matter of fact, I never heard of any that used water instead of wine or grape juice.

The differences of practice are wide. To us it is a sacrament, that is, we believe communion to be a practice commanded by God...which includes a promise of salvation ..and has a visible element(bread and wine) connected to it.  It is a means by which God gives those who partake of it His grace.
Lutherans also believe and teach that the bread and wine are also the body and blood of Christ.  We do not understand this fully, but since Jesus said that the bread and wine were His body and blood, we act in faith.

Lutheran's have different practices even among themselves as to WHO can partake of the Lord's supper.  Some congregations welcome all in attendance, others require that those partaking should be instructed concerning the Lord's suppers first.

As far as traditions are concerned;  Some use a common cup, others individual glasses, and yet others have both.  Some have waffers of bread while others use a whole loaf.