For Worldwide Communion 2020 it's fitting that we remember the first Virtual Communion was Lunar-Terrestrial. Astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin rested, waiting for the word to leave the Lunar Module, Aldrin radioed Houston and said, “I would like to request a few moments of silence. I would like to invite each person listening in, wherever and whomever he may be, to contemplate for a moment the events of the past few hours and to give thanks in his own individual way.”
Then Aldrin unwrapped a package he'd been given permission to carry with him. He brought out bread and wine. He invited Armstrong to join with him, but he declined. He participated by watching as Aldrin read John 15:5 and Psalm 8:3,4. Then Aldrin celebrated the first Virtual Communion, as everyone at the control centre in Houston observed a time of silence.
Buzz Aldrin is a Presbyterian Elder. He got a blessing, and a Communion kit, from his Minister. It was the best way Aldrin could imagine to commemorate the significance of what his colleague called, "One small step for a man. One giant leap for mankind."
For some of us our first Virtual Communion in June was a bit of a leap. Still, we appreciated the experience of community, whether it was live or recorded. On Sunday we will take a few moments at the beginning of Coffee Hour to share in Communion. What does it matter if we are in a church building, at home, or even on the moon? we will be together.
If you would like to participate, please have some bread and a beverage (wine, juice, water, or whatever you like to savour) and follow the service. Laurence will preside from his home.
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