Comunion

Comunion is a term used in Christian contexts to refer to the ritual act commonly called Holy Communion, the Eucharist, or the Lord's Supper. In this rite, believers partake of consecrated bread and, in many traditions, wine or grape juice, in remembrance of Jesus Christ's Last Supper and in fellowship with the church. The practice is central to worship in many denominations and is regarded as a means of grace, remembrance, or spiritual presence, depending on doctrinal stance.

The word is often considered an archaic or variant spelling of the standard English term "communion." In modern English, "communion" is the conventional form, while "comunion" may appear in historical texts or in non-English contexts. The concept exists in many Christian languages with local terms, such as "comunión" in Spanish or "kommunion" in German, all referring to the same sacramental act.

Theological interpretations of comunion vary across denominations. Catholic and some Orthodox traditions teach a real presence of Christ in the elements, with Catholics calling this transubstantiation. Many Protestant churches view the rite as a commemorative act, a symbolic meal, or a remembrance of the Last Supper, though some also affirm Christ’s presence in a spiritual sense. Lutherans often describe a true presence through consubstantiation, while others emphasize memorial significance without a physical change in the elements.

Practice and reception differ by tradition. Catholic and Orthodox liturgies prescribe a formal rite led by ordained ministers, with specific rules about who may receive and how often. Protestant practices range from weekly to quarterly celebrations and may include open or closed communion, depending on denominational policy. The event is typically preceded by a period of preparation or fasting in many communities.