Latter Day Saints Sacrament Prayer

The Latter-day Saints Sacrament Prayer: A Deeper Look into Its Meaning and Significance

The sacrament, often referred to as the Lord's Supper or Communion in other Christian denominations, holds a central place in the worship services of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often called Mormons). More than a mere ritual, the sacrament is a sacred ordinance, a deeply symbolic act that invites spiritual renewal and strengthens the covenant relationship between members and God. At the heart of this ordinance lies the simple yet profound sacrament prayer, recited by the priest who presides over the meeting. This article delves into the meaning and significance of this prayer, exploring its historical context, theological implications, and personal application in the lives of Latter-day Saints.

Introduction: Understanding the Sacred Ordinance

Before examining the prayer itself, it's essential to understand the context within which it's offered. For Latter-day Saints, the sacrament is not merely a symbolic remembrance of Jesus Christ's sacrifice. It's a renewing covenant, a solemn promise made between God and the individual partaking. By partaking of the bread and water, members symbolically partake of the body and blood of Christ, renewing their commitment to follow His teachings and live according to His gospel. This commitment is expressed and solidified through the sacrament prayer, which serves as a focal point for spiritual reflection and reaffirmation. This article will explore the historical context of the sacrament, the symbolic meaning of the bread and water, and the deeper spiritual significance embedded within the prayer itself.

The Historical Context of the Sacrament

The sacrament, as practiced by Latter-day Saints, has roots in the teachings and practices of Jesus Christ and his apostles as recorded in the New Testament. However, the specific form and wording of the prayer, along with the accompanying ritual, are rooted in the restoration of the gospel as experienced by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. The restoration involved the reestablishment of priesthood authority and the revelation of ancient ordinances and practices, including the correct way to administer the sacrament. This restoration emphasizes a literal understanding of the symbolic actions involved, focusing on the transformative power of Christ's atonement and its personal application in the life of believers. Understanding this historical context highlights the importance of the sacrament prayer as a direct outcome of divine revelation.

The Sacrament Prayer: Word-by-Word Analysis

The sacrament prayer itself is relatively short, but its simplicity belies its profound meaning and rich theological implications. The standard wording is as follows:

"O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this bread to the souls of all those who partake of it, that they may eat in remembrance of the body of thy Son, and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them; that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen."

And for the water:

"O God, the Eternal Father, we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ, to bless and sanctify this water to the souls of all those who partake of it, that they may drink in remembrance of the blood of thy Son, which was shed for them; that they may witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them; that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen."

Let's break down the key elements:

• "O God, the Eternal Father...": This opening invokes the presence and power of God, acknowledging the divine nature of the ordinance. It establishes the sacred context and the seriousness of the covenant being made.

• "...we ask thee in the name of thy Son, Jesus Christ...": This emphasizes the mediatorial role of Jesus Christ. All blessings and power come through Him. It highlights the centrality of Christ in the gospel plan and in the sacrament itself.

• "...to bless and sanctify this bread/water...": This is a request for divine power to transform the ordinary elements into something sacred, representing the body and blood of Christ. The word "sanctify" implies setting apart as holy, making these elements worthy of representing the divine.

• "...to the souls of all those who partake of it...": This emphasizes the spiritual nature of the sacrament and its impact on the individual's spirit. It’s not just a physical act; it's a profound spiritual experience.

• "...that they may eat/drink in remembrance of the body/blood of thy Son...": This reminds participants of the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is a solemn act of remembrance, a reaffirmation of gratitude for His suffering and death.

• "...and witness unto thee, O God, the Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them...": This is the core covenant. Partaking of the sacrament is a declaration of willingness to follow Jesus Christ, to take His name upon them, and to live according to His commandments. It's a commitment to ongoing discipleship.

• "...that they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen.": This is the promised blessing – the constant companionship of the Holy Spirit. This is the ultimate goal of the sacrament: to cultivate a closer relationship with God through the influence of the Holy Ghost.

The Symbolic Meaning of the Bread and Water

The bread and water represent the body and blood of Jesus Christ. The bread symbolizes His physical body, sacrificed for the redemption of humankind. The water symbolizes His blood, shed to cleanse from sin and offer eternal life. However, the symbolism extends beyond a simple representation. For Latter-day Saints, the elements are transformed by the prayer, becoming more than just bread and water; they become symbolic representations of the ultimate sacrifice made by Christ. This transformation is not physical but spiritual, a sacred act that unites the partaker with the Savior.

Preparing for a Meaningful Sacrament Experience

The sacrament is not a passive experience. It requires preparation and a sincere heart. Members are encouraged to reflect on their lives, repent of their sins, and strive to live more righteously before partaking. This preparation involves prayerful consideration of one's commitment to the covenants made. This process allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the spiritual blessings available through this ordinance. Considerable self-reflection on one's life and relationship with God is encouraged to enhance the experience.

The Role of the Holy Ghost in the Sacrament

The sacrament is directly connected to the influence of the Holy Ghost. The prayer itself explicitly requests that partakers may “always have his Spirit to be with them.” Latter-day Saints believe that the Holy Ghost bears witness of the truthfulness of the gospel and the reality of the Savior's sacrifice. This is why faithful participation often results in feelings of peace, joy, and spiritual renewal. The Holy Ghost provides personal confirmation and conviction of the commitments made during the sacrament.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What happens if I’m not feeling worthy to partake of the sacrament?

A: The sacrament is a powerful ordinance designed to help us draw closer to God. If you feel unworthy, the best course of action is to sincerely repent and seek forgiveness through prayer. Honest self-reflection and seeking guidance from the Lord are essential. The sacrament itself is not a judgment, but rather an opportunity for spiritual growth.

Q: Can children partake of the sacrament?

A: Children eight years of age and older are eligible to partake of the sacrament, usually after being taught about its significance. Younger children are usually included in the worship service, learning and growing in their understanding of the sacrament.

Q: What if I miss a sacrament meeting?

A: While regular attendance at sacrament meetings is encouraged, missing a meeting is not cause for undue concern. The most important thing is to strive to live according to gospel principles and to repent from any mistakes made.

Q: How often is the sacrament administered?

A: The sacrament is administered weekly in Latter-day Saint services, serving as a regular opportunity for members to renew their covenants and receive spiritual renewal.

Conclusion: The Enduring Power of the Sacrament Prayer

The sacrament prayer is more than just a set of words; it’s a sacred declaration of faith, a solemn covenant, and a powerful means of spiritual renewal. It reflects the core beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, emphasizing the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ, the importance of personal commitment to His gospel, and the ongoing influence of the Holy Ghost in the lives of believers. Understanding the history, symbolism, and theological implications of this prayer allows for a deeper, more meaningful participation in this essential ordinance. The consistent participation in the sacrament and reflection on the sacrament prayer strengthens faith, reinforces commitments, and draws individuals closer to God, enhancing spiritual growth and providing comfort and guidance throughout life's journey. The enduring power of the sacrament lies not just in its ritualistic aspects, but in its capacity to foster a personal and intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and His Father. It is a living testament to the power of the restored gospel and the continuing grace offered through the Atonement.