Wesley United Methodist 

The Love Feast (or Agape Meal)

 

What is a Love Feast?

 

The Love Feast, or Agape Meal, is a Christian fellowship meal recalling the meals Jesus shared with disciples during his ministry and expressing the koinonia (community, sharing, fellowship) enjoyed by the family of Christ. A Love Feast is different than Holy Communion! At a Love Feast you gather at a table for prayer, scripture, testimonies, praise, and the sharing of food.

You will need:

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• Someone to connect with

Bring your household together on the phone, or video chat with folks you love. Each household connecting can also have a Love Feast set up in their own homes. The purpose is to connect with someone else as you gather at the table.

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• Food and Drink

Any simple food or drink will do. The bread may be a loaf of ordinary bread, crackers, or rolls. The beverage (drink) can be water, lemonade, tea, or coffee. The Love Feast may also be followed by a full meal.

*It is customary not to use communion bread, wine, or grape juice because to do so might confuse the Love Feast with the Lord’s Supper.

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• Scripture

You may use a Bible or your phone or computer.

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• The Love Feast Outline

You can follow along with the outline below or make one that fits those with whom you are gathering. It should be kept simple.

 

The Love Feast Outline:

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A Simple Song -  Any song that centers your heart on God.

 

A Prayer – “God of earth and heaven, thank you for caring for all your children. Pour out your grace upon all our spirits and grant us assurance through Jesus Christ so that we may remember and know the power of your love through the presence of your Spirit. Amen.”

 

A Scripture Reading – Suggestions; choose one:  1 John 4:7-21; Matthew 22:34-40; Luke 9:12-17; Luke 14:16-24; John 6:25-35

 

A Conversation about the Scripture – Ask: What does this passage tell us about God? What does this passage tell us about ourselves?

 

A Sharing of Food and Drink – Share food and drink with one another in a safe way that communicates loves and gratitude of God, neighbor

 

A Time of Shared Prayer – Share joys and concerns with each other. A closing prayer may be offered or you can simply pray, “Lord in your loving grace, hear our prayers. Amen.”

 

A Simple Song  - Any song about community.  

 

A Blessing – “The God of peace be with us. Amen.”

 

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The United Methodist Book of Worship. (Nashville: The United Methodist Publishing House, 1997), pp.581-584.

The Wesleyan Love Feast, www.stpaulshouston.org. Used with permission. Adaptations made.