Lutherans believe both Baptism and Communion are "means of grace" - that God comes to us and graces us through the ordinary elements of water, bread and wine, along with God's word.
In the Sacrament of Holy Communion, after hearing and experiencing the good news of Jesus Christ in word, prayer and song, the community receives bread and wine. They experience the tangible presence of Christ by eating and drinking these elements.
The outward signs of the sacrament are simple earthly elements: bread and wine. Yet, together with the spoken promise of God these elements convey the presence of Jesus Christ to the assembly of believers. Martin Luther said that Jesus is present “in, with, and under” the bread and wine. We believe this because Jesus says it is so (Matthew 26:26-28, Mark 14:22-24, Luke 22:19-20) even when we cannot fully explain how it happens.
The presence of Jesus Christ in the sacrament of Holy Communion is a great treasure that is received in faith. In the eating and drinking of bread and wine, we experience love, forgiveness and life of Christ is ours. In the sacrament, Christ takes on our sin while we take on Christ’s righteousness. The sacrament’s emphasis is on God’s action rather than the strength of our faith.
At CtK
Understanding the invitation to participate in the meal comes from our Lord, here at Christ the King Lutheran Church we have an "open table," which means all are welcome to share in the Lord's Supper. We use unleavened bread and have gluten free wafers available for those with dietary restrictions. We use red wine, and white grape juice is also available. Instruction about Holy Communion is available throughout a person's life. Parents are encouraged to bring their children for conversation with a pastor when they discern a child is ready to receive the sacrament. We offer annual Communion instruction for all ages during the season of Lent, as well as during confirmation and during adult learning opportunities.