Kommunion

Kommunion, also known as the Holy Communion or the Eucharist, is a central sacrament in many Christian churches. It commemorates Jesus Christ's Last Supper with his disciples and the fellowship of believers who share bread and wine as a sign of unity.

The term derives from Latin communio, meaning fellowship. In Catholic, Orthodox, and many Protestant traditions, the rite is considered a sacrament or ordinance with different theological emphases on how Christ is present in the elements.

Beliefs about the presence of Christ in the Eucharist vary. Catholic teaching holds that the bread and wine become, in substance, the body and blood of Christ (transubstantiation), while the appearances remain. Orthodox theology affirms the real presence through the Holy Spirit in the consecrated gifts, without specifying a precise mechanism. Lutheran theology describes a sacramental union, whereas many Reformed churches view the elements primarily as signs and seals of grace. Some Protestant groups interpret the rite symbolically.

Practice typically involves consecration by a priest or minister, followed by the distribution of bread and wine (or grape juice). Attendees receive the elements either on the tongue, in the hand, or from a common cup, depending on the tradition. Variations exist in the type of bread (unleavened or leavened) and the use of wine versus grape juice, as well as whether children or non-members may participate. First Communion is a common rite of passage in several denominations, usually occurring after catechesis or instruction.

Historically, the practice developed in the early Christian communities and became a defining feature of liturgy in later periods, with enduring differences in theology and ritual across denominations.