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by Paul B. Pixton

Communion refers to partaking of the Lord's Supper. The more common term among members of THE CHURCH of JESUS CHRIST of Latter-day Saints is Sacrament (D&C 59:9). Eucharistia is the Greek term that meant "thanksgiving" among early Christians.

Partaking of the Sacrament is the central act of worship and covenant renewal and resembles the simple commemorative meal described in the New Testament (cf. Matt. 26:26-28; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:19-20; Acts 2:42, 46). Postbiblical doctrines of transubstantiation (real presence) and of a "mere sign" are absent from the LDS teachings. All members of the Church, including unbaptized children, are encouraged to partake of the bread and water as emblems in remembrance of the body and blood of Jesus Christ (see D&C 27). The communion sought is a communion of spirit as envisioned in the Sacrament prayers (Moro. 4-5; 3 Ne. 18; D&C 20:77, 79).

[See also Sacrament; Daily Living home page; Interfaith Relations home page]

Encyclopedia of Mormonism, Vol. 1, Communion

Copyright © 1992 by Macmillan Publishing Company