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. 1 Corinthians 11:23-24 ESV
I still remember the first time I served communion at one of the facilities that I visit here in Florida. I felt nervous because I wasn't sure who could receive because of dietary restrictions or their particular beliefs about communion. But as the Holy Spirit continued to impress on my heart the need to offer this as one of the essential ordinances of the church, I pressed ahead. After our meeting, one of the residents thanked me and said with tears, "Thank you so much. This is the first time I have been able to have communion in over a year!" If you are in any way involved in long-term care ministry, even if that means simply visiting people in their homes, I urge you to prayerfully consider bringing the Lord's Supper to our brothers and sisters who can no longer easily go to church. Here in this simple video, you will notice that the message is Biblical, complete and shared in less than four minutes. Then, while the elements are being passed, I sing two of the precious older hymns that reflect on the holiness of the moment. I hope you will be blessed, and if you want to learn more about nursing home ministry, please consider subscribing to our YouTube channel or following me here on WordPress. Have a blessed day everyone!
Serving Communion
A Closer Look at Martha and the Old Rugged Cross
Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. John 11:21
Most people have loved Mary because of her humility and worship, but the Bible tells us that Jesus also loved Martha. I think of Martha as the female version of Peter. She was always saying something! But aren’t you secretly glad that Martha said all those things and asked all the questions that the rest of us were too afraid to voice? Today’s video takes a deeper dive into Martha’s cry for help and how we need that in our lives. This also will give those who follow this blog a peek into our nursing home outreach. I am so thankful that other volunteers have come alongside to help so that we were able to serve communion this Friday. Also included is the classic hymn, “The Old Rugged Cross”. If you would like to know more about nursing home ministry, why not follow our YouTube channel? I hope that you have a blessed weekend!
Serving Communion at Nursing Home Part 2
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, 1 Corinthians 11:23
To those who have returned for part two I want to say thank you. Finding people willing to volunteers bring communion to nursing home is always a challenge. So if you are involved in nursing home ministry or would like to be and to begin bringing in the Lord’s Supper here are a few ideas that can help you get started.
Be Joyful: Serving communion is not a duty it is a joy! At the end of the last supper, even though Jesus knew that He would soon be facing death on a cross; scripture tells us that He has them sing a hymn. There are few things more exciting than sharing about and serving the Lord’s supper. So serve with a smile. You will be amazed at the blessing you will carry in your heart all week!
Collect your materials. Do not buy a communion set. They cost a fortune! Instead beg, borrow or create your own serving plates. In my current home we have only about 15 people and a small silver tray along with a ceramic cup work just fine. I buy the disposable plastic cups by mail order and the juice and matzos at the store.
Communicate to your people and set a regular schedule of when you will be serving. Residents really look forward to receiving and will make a special effort to attend if they know about it in advance. Right now I am choosing the first Monday of every month but over the holidays I am flexible and sometimes serve a special communion such as at Easter; Christmas or Thanksgiving.
Cooperate: Ask for help as well as permission from the staff. Just as I discovered, they are usually more willing to get involved than we realize. We see our people a few times a month, but the staff is with them at least 40 hours a week! They know them far better than we do and nothing could possibly replace the gentleness and love they have for the residents.
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