World Communion Day
For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way, also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” — 1 Corinthians 11:23-25
On October 4, Orangewood participated alongside the broader Church in World Communion Day. This was a day to remember, not simply because it is internationally recognized, but because it had been seven months since our last Communion. As a sign of Christ’s presence among His people, Communion could not have been received at a more appropriate time.
Pastor Joe preached that morning from Psalm 61, where David writes, “From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. For you have been my refuge…(NIV).” The room was silent as he read these words. Somehow the psalmist was able to give language to the ongoing grief and weariness that many of us have felt the past few months.
It is only natural that our response to suffering is to desire relief. Somewhere along the way in our journey, we come to believe that knowing why and having the answers will give us comfort. Joe reminded us that, although we may run to the Lord looking for answers, our truest need is deeper trust.
Some of the weariest of us are the most vulnerable of us. For the past few months, many of us have had to stay isolated and away from our church family because our health leaves us at a higher risk of a serious COVID-19 infection. With this in mind, along with regular Communion, Orangewood was led to provide a Drive-thru Communion option for our vulnerable members and friends.
Cars lined up about 30 minutes after the service ended as deacons and elders arrived at their serving stations wearing masks and gloves. The day was overcast and muggy as the rain had stopped with just enough time to allow for the Communion elements to be given. Over a span of 45 minutes, we had vulnerable members and friends receive the elements and be prayed over.
In Communion, the Holy Spirit communicates Jesus to us to strengthen us and remind us of our unity in Him. What a beautiful occasion to be reminded that we are all together made partakers of the same body.
For more information on upcoming events, please visit our events page.