Bible Question:
“The Lord's supper or communion” I am in conflict over the practice of closed communion (only members of the local church). I recently joined a church thinking that it would not that big of an issue. Every thing else was good. But now I am not able to reconcile this practice in my heart and with the Word of God. I am thinking of leaving the church because of this practice. I am with heavy heart and troubled spirit. Please help. |
Bible Answer: dewilde, In June of 2003 you posted on this matter and there were anumber of response including my post # 87268. I also posted on the same matter in another thread under post # 94017. From my perspective (catholic) closed communion is not just to the local church. Any Catholic can receive at another Catholic pasish. What is essential is a communion of faith and belief both in gneral and in specificazaly about the nature of the Eucharist. I am never offended by closeed communion in foe example Prestbyterian Churches. I feel more uncomfortable in "open communion" churches, where I am expected to receive, but cannot do so in conscience becaue I know we are not in true communion of faith and the meaning of the Eucharist. So I would be more comfortable at your congregation where receiving communion would not be expected of me. Emmaus |