World Communion Sunday

About World Communion Sunday

This tradition, always held on the first Sunday in October, was originally conceived by Dr. Hugh Thompson Kerr of Shadyside Presbyterian Church (USA) in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1933. He had served as a moderator of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. The U.S. Presbyterian Church adopted World Communion Sunday in 1936, then in 1940, the National Council of Churches endorsed it and promoted it to churches globally. Since that time, the practice has grown and expanded beyond denominational lines, emphasizing ecumenical partnership and unity throughout the Christian tradition. World Communion Sunday is a celebratory Sunday that invites us to think beyond the walls of our own congregation. On this day, people around the world celebrate Communion as an act of radical unity. While we gather at our own Table to celebrate Christ’s joyful feast, we will also remember, with fondness, our siblings in faith celebrating this same meal around the world.