Heart of the Shepherd Lutheran Church encourages all who desire to come to the Lord’s Table today to receive His Body and Blood to read over the following thoughts about Holy Communion.  

Holy Communion

We celebrate Holy Communion believing that Jesus’ words, “This is My Body... This is My blood...Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins,” mean exactly what they say, namely, that with the bread and wine we receive Christ’s body and blood, along with the forgiveness of sins and the strengthening of our faith.

Since God’s Word tells us to examine ourselves before receiving Holy Communion, please reflect on the following questions:

†    Am I truly sorry for my sins, and do I believe that Jesus Christ is my personal Savior from sin because He gave His life on the cross for me?

†    Do I truly believe that Jesus gives to me His Body and Blood and the forgiveness of my sins in this sacrament?

†    Do I honestly intend, with the help of God, not to return to a life of sin but to daily walk with my Good Shepherd and live for Him?

All confirmed members of Heart of the Shepherd Lutheran Church and guests who have been instructed in the meaning of Holy Communion and those who have  talked with Pastor about participating in Holy Communion and embrace these beliefs are welcome to receive Holy Communion, as well as those youth who have completed the Early Communion classes.   We invite all others - children, youth, and adults, to come forward to receive a blessing.

We ask those communing, to please open your hand(s) to receive Jesus’ Body, take an individual cup from the tray or help the assistant with the common cup, and then place the empty individual cup in the bowl on the stand as you return to your chair.  

Note:  We do use a red communion wine with alcohol; however, the center cup and inner circle of each tray do contain an alcohol-free communion wine.