"This is the table,
not of the Church, but of the Lord.
It is to be made ready
for those who love him
and who want to love him more."
These are the opening words of the invitation I extended this lunchtime to those gathered to celebrate Holy Communion.
There are many things that you experience as a candidate for ministry and as a probationer but the opportunity to take a whole Communion service is usually not one of them. Communion is a Sacrament and as such, in the Church of Scotland, you must be ordained to 'do' them. Today I was very fortunate as my supervisor and the minister had agreed that I could lead the service and that my supervisor would 'do' the bits I could not.
The shape and form of the service was left to me and I chose to base it on one of the liturgies in Common Order (Church of Scotland book of suggested/approved formats). I deliberately chose to stick with a traditional format as I wanted to be be left with something I would use again in my own ministry and I acknowledged that the likelihood would be that my 'first' communion would be at a regular service.
And so it was that I opened with the words above. I had realised that this was a special moment - but it wasn't until I opened my mouth and started to speak that I realised just how extraordinary it was.
My supervisor in welcoming everyone, explained that I would be leading the service and that it was special moment - he highlighted that I had now been with the congregation for 11 months and that my time was drawing to a close. (I know I still have 4 months - but the end of the year is in sight - our preaching plan is all drawn up!)
Saying the words, breaking the bread, serving my supervisor and the elders was very moving and nerve wracking. (note to self....bread first!)But it felt so right - that feeling of call may sometimes dim but it is burning bright today.
