Regarding the order of the symbols during the Lords Supper ceremony: Why is the footwashing first before the bread and the wine? Should it not be the last of the 3 symbols?
Reply: It is true that when you compare the Gospel accounts, there is some variation in the order of the elements (foot-washing, bread, wine). In our experience, there are practical concerns. The foot-washing involves moving around, perhaps even some conversation among participants. Newer people sometimes find it embarassing and awkward. They may worry about it until it is done. Consequently, we have found that doing the foot-washing first of the symbols enables participants to focus better on it, and then to concentrate, without distracting thoughts, on the other symbols as they come. We also see footwashing-bread-wine as a gradually more “spiritual” (or abstract) symbolism, though, of course, all three symbols are vital to Christianity. If your experience of the symbolism and ceremony is different, please let us know!
Related Questions
- Regarding the order of the symbols during the Lords Supper ceremony: Why is the footwashing first before the bread and the wine? Should it not be the last of the 3 symbols?
- Why do United Methodists call this sharing of bread and cup by different names, such as Lord’s Supper, Holy Communion, and Eucharist?
- Is it the Lord’s Supper, Eucharist or Holy Communion?
