Church
How often should Christians take communion?A Scripture-grounded answer about how often should christians take communion
Published Reviewed
Published Reviewed
The Bible does not prescribe a specific frequency for communion. Jesus said 'do this in remembrance of me' (Luke 22:19) without specifying how often. Acts 2:42 says the early church devoted themselves to 'the breaking of bread,' and Acts 20:7 mentions gathering on 'the first day of the week' to break bread, suggesting weekly practice. Churches today range from daily (some Catholic and Anglican parishes) to weekly (many Reformed and early church traditions) to monthly or quarterly (common in some Protestant churches).
Why this answer? It starts with 1 Corinthians 11:26, then cross-checks Luke 22:19 and Acts 2:42 so the summary stays anchored in Scripture.
Paul's phrase 'as often as you eat this bread' (1 Corinthians 11:26) deliberately avoids specifying frequency — the emphasis is on the meaning ('proclaim the Lord's death') rather than the schedule. Historical evidence suggests the earliest Christians celebrated the Lord's Supper weekly as part of their Sunday gathering (Acts 20:7, Didache 14:1, Justin Martyr's First Apology). The shift to monthly or quarterly communion in some Protestant churches began during the Reformation, partly as a reaction against what reformers saw as superstitious views of the Eucharist. Calvin actually wanted weekly communion but was overruled by Geneva's city council. John Wesley urged frequent communion, writing that Christians should take it 'as often as you can.' The Catholic and Orthodox traditions maintain daily or weekly celebration. The Bible's silence on exact frequency suggests freedom — the critical thing is not the schedule but the sincerity and reverence with which communion is observed.
“For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.”
- 1 Corinthians 11:26
Communion (the Lord's Supper) is a sacred practice Jesus instituted at the Last Supper. Believers eat bread and drink wine (or grape juice) to remember Christ's body broken and blood shed for our sins. It proclaims His death until He returns and examines our hearts before God.
Paul's instructions in 1 Corinthians 11:27-29 indicate that communion should be taken with self-examination and sincere faith. Those who eat and drink 'without discerning the body' bring judgment on themselves. Most Christian traditions agree that communion is for baptized believers who have examined their hearts. Churches differ on whether communion is 'open' (any Christian may participate) or 'closed' (only members of that congregation or denomination). The key biblical principle is that participants should approach the table with reverence, repentance, and genuine faith in Christ.
At the Last Supper, Jesus broke bread and said 'This is my body,' then took the cup and said 'This is my blood of the covenant' (Matthew 26:26-28). Christians have debated the meaning ever since. Catholics believe the bread and wine become Christ's actual body and blood (transubstantiation). Lutherans believe Christ is really present 'in, with, and under' the elements (real presence). Reformed Christians believe Christ is spiritually present through faith. Baptists and many evangelicals view the elements as symbols that represent Christ's sacrifice. All agree the meal proclaims Christ's death and anticipates his return.
The church is the community of all believers in Jesus Christ—His body on earth. It's not primarily a building but people called out by God to worship Him, grow together, and serve the world. The local church gathers for worship, teaching, fellowship, and mission.
Ask any question about the Bible, Christianity, or theology and get answers grounded in Scripture.
Answers are informed by Scripture and trusted theologians including Matthew Henry, John Calvin, and John Wesley. Always verify with Scripture and consult your local church for pastoral guidance.