UNIT 3: THE OPEN TABLE AND SACRAMENTAL OPENNESS
The most visible expression of our ethos is the Eucharist.
3.1 The “Open Table” Dogma
The Roman Catholic and Orthodox churches practice “Closed Communion”—only those formally in their jurisdiction may receive. The AOCM practices “Open Communion.”
“Communion is open to all baptised Christians who seek Christ in faith and love, regardless of denomination”.
Why?
- Christ is the Host: It is the Lord’s Table, not the AOCM’s table. We do not have the authority to turn away those whom Christ has invited.
- Medicine, Not Prize: “The Eucharist… is not the reward of the worthy but the nourishment of the pilgrim”. If the Eucharist is medicine for the soul, refusing it to a sinner is like a hospital refusing medicine to a sick person.
- Ecumenical Hope: By sharing the bread, we prophesy the future unity of the Church.
3.2 Limits to Openness?
Does “Open Table” mean “anything goes”? No.
- Reverence: We still require discerning the body (1 Cor 11). The recipient must approach with “faith and love”.
- Baptism: The ancient norm is that Communion follows Baptism. While we do not police the rail, we teach that Baptism is the door to the Eucharistic feast.
