Eucharistia is a Greek word meaning “thanksgiving,” and within the Christian tradition, there are several ways giving has been and can be expressed.

When we share in the eucharist, or communion, the act of giving can remind us us to reflect on  the themes of Christ’s sacrifice and apply those themes to our personal call to service and to the local Christian community and beyond. Additionally, there are many ways in which thanksgiving and giving are intertwined with the practice of communion.

When we participate in communion, the bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ, given for the salvation of humanity, and as we take these elements, we accept these gifts “given for us.” The act of participating in communion can be a form of reciprocal spiritual giving. We can offer our hearts, minds, and lives to God, renewing our commitment to live according to Jesus’ teachings in return for the sacrificial act of the crucifixion of Jesus. Communion may inspire us, as an act of thanksgiving to engage in acts of sacrificial service expressing Christ’s love for one another in tangible ways. 

The Eucharist is a reminder of our connectedness in Christ. In many Christian traditions, the celebration of communion has been accompanied by the collection of offerings. These offerings can be monetary gifts or other forms of support for our congregation, the broader church, and its many ministries. This practice continues to emphasize the importance of generosity and sharing within the community, reflecting the early Christian practice of sharing resources to support those in need both inside our congregations and outside them.