CHAPTER IV
CORPORATE WORSHIP AND COMMUNION
The really essential thing is the Communion. There may be minor
outward differences as to the manner of its celebration: you shall
find in one parish a tradition of Puritan bareness, in another a full
and rich ceremonial symbolism, with lights and vestments. A man may
have his personal preferences, but it is a mistake to attach undue
importance either to the presence or to the absence of the external
adjuncts of worship. What matters is the Body and Blood of Christ.
A man must have his own regular rule with regard to Communion. To
communicate spasmodically or upon impulse at irregular intervals is
not the way to build up a stable Christian character. Where
circumstances make possible the leading of a fairly regular life and
give adequate opportunity for preparation beforehand, weekly communion
is the best rule. Where this is not possible, a fortnightly or even a
monthly rule may in particular cases be the best.
Preparation for Communion should be real, but need not be elaborate.
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