Table of Contents
IGCSE Religious Studies – Holy Communion Questions and Answers #
1.
[4 marks]
What is Holy Communion and what other names is it known by in different Christian traditions?
Holy Communion is a Christian ceremony where people eat bread and drink wine to remember Jesus. It’s also called the Eucharist (mainly by Catholics, Orthodox and Anglicans), Mass (by Catholics), and Lord’s Supper (by many Protestants). Each name shows a different meaning of the ceremony.
2.
[6 marks]
Describe the biblical basis for Holy Communion with reference to the Last Supper.
Holy Communion comes from Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples before he died. In the Bible (Matthew 26:26-29, Mark 14:22-25, Luke 22:14-20), Jesus took bread, blessed it, and said “This is my body.” He took wine and said “This is my blood.” He told his followers to “do this to remember me.” This story is why Christians practice Holy Communion today.
3.
[6 marks]
Explain the Catholic teaching of transubstantiation regarding Holy Communion.
Transubstantiation is the Catholic belief that during Mass, the bread and wine actually become Jesus’ body and blood, even though they still look, taste, and feel like bread and wine. Catholics believe this happens when the priest blesses the bread and wine. After this blessing, Catholics treat the bread and wine with special respect because they believe Jesus is truly present in them.
4.
[8 marks]
How do Protestant views of Holy Communion differ from the Catholic view?
Protestant views of Holy Communion differ from Catholic views mainly in how they see the bread and wine. Catholics believe the bread and wine actually become Christ’s body and blood. Most Protestants see them as symbols. Lutherans believe Christ is present “in, with, and under” the bread and wine. Anglicans believe Christ is present but don’t explain exactly how. Baptists and Methodists usually see the bread and wine as symbols to help us remember. Also, Protestants usually let all believers participate, while Catholics have stricter rules.
5.
[6 marks]
What are the key elements used in Holy Communion and what does each one symbolize?
The key elements in Holy Communion are bread and wine (or grape juice). The bread stands for Jesus’ body that was sacrificed for people’s sins. The wine stands for Jesus’ blood that was shed to forgive sins. These elements are usually placed on special dishes: the bread on a plate (paten) and the wine in a cup (chalice). Jesus chose these simple items at the Last Supper to help people remember his sacrifice.
6.
[8 marks]
Why is Holy Communion considered one of the most important sacraments or ceremonies in Christianity?
Holy Communion is very important in Christianity because: 1) Jesus himself started it and told followers to continue it, 2) it gives Christians a physical way to connect with Jesus’ death, 3) it reminds Christians of their beliefs about salvation, 4) it brings Christians together in a shared experience, and 5) it represents the new agreement between God and people through Jesus.
7.
[10 marks]
Sarah attends a Catholic church and her friend James attends a Baptist church. They have been discussing their experiences of Holy Communion and notice several differences. Explain the likely differences in how Holy Communion is understood and practiced in these two denominations.
In Sarah’s Catholic church, Holy Communion (Mass) happens often, even daily. The priest blesses the bread and wine, which Catholics believe become Christ’s actual body and blood. Only proper Catholics can receive it. The ceremony follows strict rules and uses special items.
In James’ Baptist church, Holy Communion (Lord’s Supper) happens less often, maybe monthly. Baptists see it as a symbol, not a real change in the bread and juice (they often use juice instead of wine). Usually any believer can join in. The ceremony is simpler and less formal. Baptists see Holy Communion as important but not as a special channel of God’s grace like Catholics do.
