communion sunday: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low FrequencyFormal / Religious
Quick answer
What does “communion sunday” mean?
A specific Sunday in the liturgical calendar when the sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is celebrated in many Christian churches.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific Sunday in the liturgical calendar when the sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is celebrated in many Christian churches.
In many Protestant denominations, a designated Sunday, often monthly or quarterly, when the Lord's Supper is administered to the congregation, often seen as a focal point for collective worship and spiritual renewal.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Terminology is largely the same. Some British churches, particularly Anglican, might use 'Communion' or 'Eucharist' more frequently, while some American evangelical churches may prefer 'The Lord's Supper' in naming the day. 'Sacrament Sunday' is a rare alternative.
Connotations
No significant difference in connotation. It universally denotes a day of heightened solemnity and communal spiritual practice within the church calendar.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, used almost exclusively within church-going communities and related publications.
Grammar
How to Use “communion sunday” in a Sentence
The congregation observes [Communion Sunday].We celebrate [Communion Sunday] on the first weekend.[Communion Sunday] falls on the 5th this month.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “communion sunday” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Communion Sunday service is particularly well-attended.
- They follow a traditional Communion Sunday liturgy.
American English
- She prepared her heart for the Communion Sunday observance.
- The Communion Sunday schedule was posted in the foyer.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in theological, historical, or sociological studies of religion.
Everyday
Used primarily by members of Christian congregations in conversation about church schedules.
Technical
Used in liturgical planning, church bulletins, and pastoral ministry.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “communion sunday”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “communion sunday”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “communion sunday”
- Writing it in lowercase ('communion sunday').
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'We will communion sunday').
- Confusing it with 'Palm Sunday' or 'Easter Sunday', which are specific dates in the Christian calendar.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The frequency, name, and specific rituals observed on Communion Sunday can vary significantly between denominations (e.g., Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian).
In context, yes. One might say, 'Is it Communion this Sunday?' However, 'Communion Sunday' is more specific, clearly referring to the day of the week when the sacrament is held.
Practices vary. Some churches practice 'open communion' (all baptized believers welcome), while others practice 'closed communion' (only members of that denomination or church). It is best to check with the local church's practice.
The English term is used in international Christian communities where English is the language of worship. Local languages will have their own direct equivalent (e.g., Domingo de Comunión in Spanish).
A specific Sunday in the liturgical calendar when the sacrament of the Eucharist (Holy Communion) is celebrated in many Christian churches.
Communion sunday is usually formal / religious in register.
Communion sunday: in British English it is pronounced /kəˈmjuːnjən ˈsʌndeɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /kəˈmjuːnjən ˈsʌndeɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's a Communion Sunday kind of feeling (a sense of deep spiritual solemnity and community).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: COMMunity UNIting ON a Sunday = Communion Sunday.
Conceptual Metaphor
SPIRITUAL MEAL IS COMMUNAL BONDING; THE CALENDAR IS A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY (with specific milestones).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary activity associated with 'Communion Sunday'?