For a Virginia church, the COVID-19 pandemic brought a change to communion.
By Bobby Ross Jr. | The Christian Chronicle
ARLINGTON, Va. — It’s warm and personal.
It’s close-knit like a real family.
That’s how Ernestine Jones, 77, a longtime member of the Arlington Church of Christ, describes the Washington, D.C.-area congregation’s new approach to communion.
“You actually get to see the person right in front of you,” said Jones, a retired federal government worker.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the 85-year-old congregation — just across the Potomac River from the nation’s capital — has strived to make the Lord’s Supper more meaningful.
Church members no longer sit with heads bowed as they partake of the emblems.
In fact, the congregation — formed in the World War II era — removed entire rows of pews at the center of the auditorium. That modification made room for simple rectangular tables.
On a recent Sunday, nine gold communion trays rested atop purple tablecloths, providing a colorful backdrop for the commemoration of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection.
Minister Chess Cavitt preached a message emphasizing the importance of the Lord’s Supper before worshipers — about 50 in all — rose from their seats and gathered on all sides of four tables.
Believers greeted fellow Christians with handshakes and hugs — and gazed into each other’s eyes as they ate of the bread and drank of the cup.
“We’re about to have a meal together,” the communion leader explained. “Granted, the portions may seem rather small, but the meaning is hugely significant.”
Photo by Bobby Ross Jr.
Faith. Family. Fastballs. 