"I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those
who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one.
As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us,
so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 

~ John 17:20

World Communion Sunday

World Communion Sunday began as World-wide Communion Sunday at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in 1933. The Rev. Hugh Thompson Kerr and his congregation sought to demonstrate the interconnectedness of Christian churches, regardless of denomination. Even though the communion table is the one table to which all Christians are called, our understandings and practices at the table often serve to divide us. On this day, World Communion Sunday, we seek to overcome these barriers and acknowledge our oneness across them.

In the United Methodist Church, World Communion Sunday is also a celebration emphasizing the value of education and training. We commemorate this day by giving generously to support young adults and make a global impact for Christ. Half of the offering benefits World Communion scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students from the U.S. and other countries. The remainder provides grants to support training for worldwide inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. Your gift is a practical expression of care, equipping students to shape a hopeful future. Supporting United Methodist students offers both financial and spiritual encouragement, demonstrating the church's confidence in their potential. Last year, the generosity of United Methodists around the world raised $443,000, enabling undergraduate and graduate studies for those who could not otherwise afford an education, helping to shape the future leaders of UMC.

On World Communion Sunday, as we eat of one consecrated loaf, we signal our unity with Christ and his body, the church, even as we celebrate and seek the oneness of the whole communion of saints on earth and in heaven. It is for all of us that Jesus prays for unity “that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” It is to this unity that we give witness on World Communion Sunday.

As you prepare your heart for World Communion Sunday, consider these questions, “When have you witnessed unity? What does communion mean to you?”

October Communion Rail Offering Honors World Communion Sunday 

This month's communion rail offering is in honor of World Communion Sunday. United Methodists, in conjunction with other denominations worldwide, participate in communion to recognize our unity in Jesus Christ. This universal and inclusive connection is the foundation of the special offering for World Communion Sunday. Donations support racial and ethnic students in achieving their goals and transforming communities. These funds provide scholarships, grants, mentoring, and training for leadership development in the U.S. and throughout the world.

All month long, you may give to the communion rail online at onrealm.org/stjohnsaustin/-/form/give/church (select "Communion Rail" from the drop-down menu), by mail, or by placing an envelope in the offering plate. In the memo line, please designate your gift for “Communion Rail Offering."

Tags: world communion sunday