Communion Practices at Abiding Presence

Everyone and anyone is welcome to receive the sacrament of Holy Communion at the Lord's Table at Abiding Presence.  Here is a brief explanation of our communion practice so that you know what to expect.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask an usher, Pastor Keseley, or Vicar Bankert.

Saturday Vespers

  • The pastor will invite the congregation to approach the altar.
  • Join the large circle around the altar.
  • The pastor will give you a piece of bread with the words, “Body of Christ, given for you.”
  • The Assisting Minister will come around with a tray of pre-filled glasses from which you can choose wine or grape juice.  He or she will say, “Blood of Christ, shed for you.”
  • The pastor will offer a blessing and then those gathered will be invited to return to their seats
  • Return your used glass to the basket on your way back to your seat.

Sunday Praise & Sunday Traditional

  • An usher will give your row the signal to proceed to the altar.
  • Take a small empty glass from the tray at the first row on the center aisle. Some glasses in the tray contain non-alcoholic juice for younger communicants or those who prefer not to drink alcohol.
  • The pastor will give you a piece of bread with the words, “Body of Christ, given for you.”
  • The Assisting Minister will then fill your glass with wine from a chalice, with the words, “Blood of Christ, shed for you” OR you may drink from the common cup.
  • The crucifer will follow with a tray in which you place your empty glass.
  • Return to your seat.