The Holy Communion Ministry at Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM) is dedicated to preparing and facilitating the observance of the Lord’s Table, ensuring that the sacrament is conducted with reverence and order. This ministry serves the entire congregation by organizing the elements and assisting during Holy Communion services.
Mission Statement
To honor Christ’s command by preparing and serving the Holy Communion emblems, fostering a reflective and worshipful environment for all participants.
Key Objectives
- Preparation of Emblems: Ensure the timely and sanitary preparation of the bread and cup for communion services.
- Facilitation During Services: Assist in the orderly distribution of communion elements to the congregation.
- Spiritual Readiness: Engage in prayer and reflection to maintain a reverent atmosphere during communion observances.
- Collaboration: Work closely with pastoral staff and other ministries to coordinate communion services effectively.
Activities and Programs
- Monthly Preparation Meetings: Gather on Saturdays preceding the first Sunday of each month to prepare communion elements and pray for the upcoming service.
- Service Participation: Assist in serving the congregation during Holy Communion Sundays, ensuring a smooth and worshipful experience.
- Special Observances: Prepare unleavened bread for breaking regular fasts observed for specific purposes.
Key Events
- Monthly Holy Communion Service: Observed on the first Sunday of each month, where the ministry plays a crucial role in preparation and facilitation.
- Easter and Christmas Services: Special communion services during significant Christian holidays, requiring additional preparation and coordination.
- Church Retreats and Conferences: Facilitating communion during church-wide retreats and special gatherings.
Biblical Foundation
The ministry is grounded in Scripture, following Christ’s instruction to remember His sacrifice:
- “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'” – Luke 22:19
- “In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'” – Luke 22:20
- “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” – 1 Corinthians 11:26
- “Is not the cup of thanksgiving for which we give thanks a participation in the blood of Christ? And is not the bread that we break a participation in the body of Christ?” – 1 Corinthians 10:16
Integration into the Larger CITAM Family
The Holy Communion Ministry collaborates with other departments, such as the Ushering and Worship Ministries, to ensure a cohesive and reverent communion experience for the congregation. This collaboration reflects CITAM’s commitment to holistic and unified worship practices.
Requirements to Join
- Membership: Be a registered and active member of CITAM.
- Express Interest: Inform the Holy Communion Ministry leader or pastoral staff of your desire to serve.
- Training: Participate in training sessions to understand the procedures and spiritual significance of the ministry.
- Commitment: Demonstrate a willingness to serve consistently, especially during preparation times and communion services.
How to Contribute to Our Mission
- Prayer Support: Pray for the ministry’s effectiveness and the spiritual impact of communion services.
- Volunteer Assistance: Offer your time during preparation and service times, even if not a regular member of the ministry.
- Resource Provision: Contribute resources or funds to assist in procuring communion elements and related materials.
- Encourage Participation: Educate and encourage fellow congregants about the significance of Holy Communion and the importance of participation.
Recurrent Meetings
- Monthly Preparation Sessions: Held on Saturdays before the first Sunday to prepare elements and pray.
- Quarterly Training Workshops: Sessions aimed at enhancing the team’s effectiveness and spiritual readiness.
Contact Details
For more information or to get involved with the Holy Communion Ministry, please contact the ministry leader at your local CITAM assembly or visit the official CITAM website: www.citam.org.
Through the Holy Communion Ministry, CITAM upholds the sacred tradition of the Lord’s Table, fostering a deeper connection with Christ’s sacrifice and promoting unity within the body of believers.