Mennonite View on Communion:
The Mennonite view on communion highlights its symbolic significance rather than its literal interpretation. For Mennonites, communion is not a sacrament but an ordinance, which means it is a symbolic act of obedience to Jesus’ command to remember him through the breaking of bread and drinking of wine. Mennonites view communion as a commemoration of Christ’s death, where the bread symbolizes Christ’s body and the cup symbolizes his blood.
Mennonites usually celebrate communion only a few times a year and maintain an open invitation to all believers to participate in the event. Communion is usually preceded by a time of reflection and prayer, with emphasis placed on confessing sins and reconciliation with others.
Anglican View on Communion:
The Anglican view on communion focuses on the Eucharistic liturgy as a sacrament, which means the act itself is a source of spiritual grace. Anglicans believe that Christ is truly present in the bread and wine and that the Eucharist is a sacrament that unites the worshipper with the heavenly realm. The Anglican view of communion is influenced by the teachings of Thomas Aquinas and the belief in transubstantiation, where the bread and wine are believed to literally become the body and blood of Christ.
Anglicans usually celebrate communion every Sunday and place emphasis on the role of the priest or presbyter who administers the sacrament. Anglican liturgy often includes specific prayers and rituals meant to prepare believers for the reception of the Eucharist. The invitation to participate in communion is often limited to those who are baptized and have been confirmed by an Anglican bishop.
