World Communion Sunday, celebrated on October 6th this year, presents a wonderful opportunity to help children appreciate our unity as Christians. On this special day, thousands of people all around the world gather to remember Jesus as they share bread and wine.
Based on my new picture book, Gathered at the Table: Celebrating Communion. here is a responsive liturgy, where the congregation, including children, are Invited to repeat the simple but powerful phrase: Come, Come to the table.
A RESPONSIVE LITURGY FOR WORLD COMMUNION SUNDAY
(L denotes Leader, C denotes Congregation.)
L: Called to the table, to share the wine and bread,
“I want you to remember me,” Jesus softly said.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: We think about the mystery – the words that Jesus said,
And how he gave his life for us as we break the bread.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: Gathered at the table, God’s Spirit in the air,
We drink the cup of blessing, the bread of life we share.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: Together in communion, one family – young and old,
We celebrate together, as ancient words are told.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: There’s room at the table, no matter how we feel,
Jesus reaches out to us in this holy meal.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: We rise from the table, forgiven, loved, and free.
We leave to be the people who God calls us to be.
C: Come, Come to the table.
L: Gathered at the table, surrounded by God’s grace,
We are one Christian family, in every time and place.
C: Come, Come to the table.
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Please include the following information when reproducing this liturgy:
Copyright @GlenysNellist, Words taken from Gathered at the Table: Celebrating Communion, published by Zonderkidz, 2024
Churches are also welcome to share the VIDEO.
May the grace, hope and peace of Jesus be with you all as you remember him through the breaking of the bread.
Glenys
*** For churches interested in gifting families with the book on World Communion Sunday., copies of 10 or more available here with free shipping at 35% off.)
Also available: Free downloadable Activity Pack containing tips for talking with children about communion, simple bread recipes, bookmarks, signed bookplates, colorings and more!