Definition

1. Noun:
   • A group of Christians with a common religious faith who practice the same rites: "Communion" can refer to a specific Christian denomination or a body of believers united by shared doctrine and worship.
   • Sharing thoughts and feelings: "Communion" denotes a deep, intimate sharing of emotions, ideas, or experiences between people, creating a sense of fellowship.
   • The act of participating in the celebration of the Eucharist: In Christian liturgy, "Communion" (often capitalized) specifically refers to the sacrament of the Eucharist, where participants receive consecrated bread and wine.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The Anglican Communion is a worldwide family of churches. (Refers to a specific Christian denomination.)
  • They sat in quiet communion, understanding each other without words. (Refers to sharing thoughts and feelings.)
  • She takes Communion every Sunday during the church service. (Refers to the Eucharistic sacrament.)

Advanced Usage

• "To be in communion with": To be in a state of close, sympathetic relationship or spiritual union with someone or something.
  • The poet felt in deep communion with nature.
• "To hold communion with": To have communication or fellowship with.
  • He held secret communion with the leaders of the movement.

Variants and Related Words

• Communion of saints: A Christian doctrine referring to the spiritual union between all faithful Christians, both living and dead.
• Holy Communion: Another term for the sacrament of the Eucharist.
• Communion table: The table used for the celebration of Communion in some churches.

Synonyms

• Fellowship: Friendly association, especially with people who share one's interests.
• Rapport: A close and harmonious relationship in which the people or groups concerned understand each other's feelings or ideas and communicate well.
• Sacrament: A religious ceremony or ritual regarded as an outward and visible sign of inward and spiritual grace, such as the Eucharist.

Related Phrases

• Take Communion / Receive Communion: To participate in the Eucharistic sacrament by consuming the consecrated elements.
  • The congregation went forward to take Communion.
• Go to Communion: To attend a church service with the intention of receiving the Eucharist.
  • She goes to Communion every morning.

Noun

1. (Christianity) a group of Christians with a common religious faith who practice the same rites
2. sharing thoughts and feelings
3. the act of participating in the celebration of the Eucharist
   • the governor took Communion with the rest of the congregation