Communion ... The word means fellowship, sharing, holding something in common. For followers of Christ, it's a special time of worship where we remember Jesus' great love. Anyone who shares our faith in Christ is welcome to attend. We also welcome people who would like to observe the symbolism without participating. We CELEBRATE a tri-fold communion. This include three elements:

BREAD & CUP - Symbols of Christ's broken body and shed blood

We practice the Bread and Cup in obedience to Christ, observing this symbol of love until He returns. This act reminds each believer of the price He paid for us.

"For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes." 1 Corinthians 11:26

FOOT WASHING - "Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet" John 13:14
We practice foot washing to remember our need for daily cleansing from sin. Foot washing is a symbol of love and a very meaningful time for believers.

LOVE FEAST - a simple meal, shared in Christian fellowship looking forward to the future meal with Christ (the wedding supper of the Lamb)
We practice the Love Feast because Jesus shared it with His disciples at the Last Supper. The meal is a fellowship time characterized by His love. Eating together reminds us of our special bond to Christ and with each other.

ENCOUNTER celebrates communion 8 times a year: four times in the small group setting and four times immediately following a Sunday morning service. The dates for Communion in 2009 are:

Following the Sunday morning service:
April 25th
October 24th

Small Groups:
March 7th - March 20th
May 23rd - June 5th
August 22nd - September 4th

For more information on the elements of Communion please read the more in-depth explanations below to understand why we celebrate the way we do! Also, feel free to contact Pastor Sean to talk more about communion @ ENCOUNTER.