Christians need a robust sense of the Supper as a means of grace. Unfortunately, in reaction to Rome, many American Christians have lost something of the mystery of the Supper. They think of it solely in funereal terms. They see it principally as an opportunity to grieve over their sins and as a time for repentance. To be sure, a preparatory service is most useful, but the funereal aspect of the Supper seems to be the principle reason why many Christians instinctively oppose more frequent Communion. The objection that a more frequent observation of the Supper will decrease its significance rests on the assumption that Communion is principally a funeral rather than a meal and a means of grace. What makes the Supper significant is not sentiment but Christ’s presence.
R. Scott Clark, The Heidelberg Catechism: A Historical, Theological & Pastoral Commentary (Lexham Academic: 2025), 522–23.
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