While they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, “Take and eat. This is my body.” He took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, “Drink from this, all of you.” - Matthew 26:26-27

Christians have been taking communion, participating in The Lord’s Supper, since Jesus first broke the bread and poured the wine in the Upper Room the day before his crucifixion. Here at Howard Memorial the sacrament is celebrated the first Sunday of every month.

Then, during these hot summer Sundays and likely for the past 150 years, delicious cold lemonade and cookies are served on the lawn after worship.

Both experiences are eucharistic in the sense that Christ intended when he charged his disciples — instructed us -with the practice of “doing this in remembrance of me.”

Jesus, as Rebekah pointed out in her message June 2nd, chose the most common and accessible elements for his followers to use as a mnemonic device.

The Master knew that “breaking bread together” was already sacramental in terms of gathering for sustenance and fellowship and encouragement and devotion.

Sitting in the congregation this past Sunday, having taken the bread and the wine, I felt deeply connected both to Jesus and to my sisters and brothers coming forward to receive the elements.

Then, standing outside under the huge crepe myrtle in front of the sanctuary, munching a goldfish and sipping lemonade with the same good people, I felt a moistening in my eyes because I understood that this is communion too.

At home, over lunch, Rebekah and I paused to remember and offer our gratitude to God. Later this week, when we break bread with friends both from the church and from the community we will - again - take the cup, give thanks, and share God’s love.

Jesus often talked about “living water” and “the bread of life.” To live, then, it is necessary to be sustained both in body and in spirit.

Water, wine, bread, lemonade, cookies… goldfish.
- Derek