“It is right, our duty, and our joy to give praise and thanks.” These are the opening words of the Holy Communion prayer, expressing thanksgiving and praise (Matthew 26:27; 1 Corinthians 11:24). In Anglican tradition, Holy Communion is the main worship service because we thank God for the gift of forgiveness and new life that Jesus accomplished on the cross 2,000 years ago! We receive bread and wine as assurance of what we thank Him for, deepening our faith and awareness of His generosity.

The bread and wine represent Jesus’ life and the new life that Jesus gives to those who are baptized. Therefore, Holy Communion is like a family meal, where the family gathers in thanksgiving and joy (Psalm 116:17). During Communion, the church as God’s family comes together in joy and in God’s love. Together, we renew our trust in Jesus Christ and our commitment to one another as God’s family.

All guests are welcome to join in the celebration. Those who are not yet baptized can come forward to receive a blessing. The priest or minister will ask God to show His love, joy, and peace to you. You can place your hands on your chest as a signal to the minister that you would like a prayer of blessing.

In principle, we want this time to be a time of prayer and worship: a time to draw near to God among His people. We recommend that you use this time to thank Jesus for the new life He has given you and ask Him to strengthen you in faith and walk with Him.