After taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, 'Take this and divide it among you.  For I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.'

 

And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'

 

In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, 'This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.'

(Luke 22: 17-20)

This model is followed by our church because, first of all, He instructs us to do so.  The Old Testament practice of offering sacrifices to God is fulfilled when God offers Himself for us.  It must be noted that He institutes this practice by utilizing the fundamental need of all human beings.  This practice of eating and drinking in fellowship will continue until His second coming. 

 

It is commonly believed that the first Eucharist celebration took place in the upper room of St. Mark, under the leadership of James.  Naturally, modifications were made to this model as years passed.  Reading from Scripture, singing of Psalms, and other rituals that were already in Jewish practice was incorporated into the service. 

 

Unfortunately, many Christian denominations have removed this basic practice of the Eucharist and the Last Supper.  Our church continues this tradition passed on to us by God Himself as not only a commemoration of this event, but more importantly, for the forgiveness of our sin and the promise of life eternal.