What does the Lord's Supper symbolize in Christian practice?

The Lord's Supper, also known as Communion or the Eucharist, primarily symbolizes Christ's sacrifice for humanity. This sacrament serves as a profound reminder of the central belief in Christianity—that Jesus willingly gave His life to atone for the sins of humankind. During the Last Supper, Jesus instituted this practice by breaking bread and sharing wine, signifying His body and blood that would be sacrificed on the cross.

This ritual is not only a commemoration of the historical event but also acts as a means for believers to reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, reinforcing the foundational Christian doctrine of salvation through His death and resurrection. The act of partaking in the Lord's Supper cultivates a sense of gratitude and reverence among believers for the grace given through Christ’s ultimate act of love.

While unity among believers and the last meal of Jesus are important aspects associated with the Lord's Supper, they derive their significance from the underlying theme of Christ's sacrifice. The act of washing the saints’ feet, although a demonstration of servitude modeled by Jesus, does not directly encompass the primary symbolism of the Lord's Supper itself. Thus, the essence of the practice is deeply connected to the remembrance of Christ's sacrifice for humanity