The Idolatrous Practice of Adoring Communion Bread and Wine

The practice of adoring the communion bread and wine, known as Eucharistic adoration, has been a contentious issue within Christian theology and practice. This act of reverence, central to the Roman Catholic faith, has often been labeled as idolatrous by other Christian denominations, primarily due to differing theological interpretations of the Eucharist. This article explores the roots of Eucharistic adoration, the theological arguments for and against the practice, and the broader implications for Christian worship.

Historical Background

Eucharistic adoration traces its origins to the early Christian belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. This belief, formalized in the doctrine of transubstantiation by the Fourth Lateran Council in 1215, holds that the bread and wine, while retaining their physical appearances, become the actual body and blood of Christ during the Mass. This transformation warrants profound reverence and adoration, leading to practices such as the elevation of the Host during Mass, Eucharistic processions, and the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament for adoration.

Theological Underpinnings

The central theological justification for Eucharistic adoration lies in the belief that Christ is truly present in the consecrated elements. This presence is not merely symbolic but a profound mystery wherein Christ is fully and substantially present. Hence, adoring the Eucharist is seen as adoring Christ Himself. The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1378) states: "In the liturgy of the Mass, we express our faith in the real presence of Christ under the species of bread and wine by, among other ways, genuflecting or bowing deeply as a sign of adoration of the Lord."

Arguments Against Eucharistic Adoration

Idolatry Concerns: Critics argue that adoring the consecrated bread and wine borders on idolatry, as it involves worshiping created objects. According to the Second Commandment, worship is to be directed to God alone, and any reverence towards objects can be seen as a violation of this commandment. It is significant to note that Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans et al. do not express the Second Commandment as one which states that no graven image (i.e., idol) is to be constructed. Rather, the foregoing side-step the commandment, asserting that it is incorporated in the First Commandment. Catholics et al. cite the commandment expressing the need to remember the sabbath day and keep it holy as the Second Commandment. They then bifurcate the commandment dealing with covetousness into the Ninth and Tenth Commandments.

In Lutheranism, the Eucharist (a/ka: "Communion") refers to the liturgical commemoration of the Last Supper. Lutherans believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, affirming the doctrine of sacramental union, "in which the body and blood of Christ are truly and substantially present, offered, and received with the bread and wine."

Consubstantiation (also called impanation) says that, after consecration, bread and wine remain and Christ becomes present within, among, or "along-side" the bread. Transubstantiation says no bread remains after consecration; the substance of bread no longer exists, having been replaced by the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Christ. Lutherans reject the term consubstantiation. They prefer to assert that Christ's body and blood are "in, with and under" the elements of bread and wine.

Consubstantiation is the belief, contrary to Catholic doctrine, that in the Eucharist the body and blood of Christ coexist with the bread and wine after the Consecration of the Mass. John Wyclif (1324-84) and Martin Luther (1483-1546) professed consubstantiation because they denied transubstantiation. 

The Book of Concord condemns the adoration of the elements, though without specifically calling it idolatry:

On the other hand, we unanimously reject and condemn all the following erroneous articles, which are opposed and contrary to the doctrine presented above, the simple faith, and the [pure] confession concerning the Lord’s Supper;

That the external visible elements of the bread and wine should be adored in the Holy Sacrament. (Epitome of the Formula of Concord, VII, para. 40)

Accordingly, with heart and mouth we reject and condemn as false, erroneous, and misleading all Sacramentarian opiniones (opinions) and doctrines which are not in accordance with, but contrary and opposed to, the doctrine above presented and founded upon God’s Word:

Likewise, when it is taught that the elements or the visible species or forms of the consecrated bread and wine must be adored. 

Symbolic Interpretation: Many Protestant denominations view the Eucharist symbolically rather than literally. They believe the bread and wine are memorials of Christ’s sacrifice, not His actual body and blood. Therefore, adoration of these elements is considered inappropriate and theologically unsound.

Misplaced Focus: Some argue that the adoration of the Eucharist can divert focus from the communal and participatory aspects of the Eucharist. The sacrament is meant to be a shared meal that unites believers with Christ and each other, rather than an object of solitary adoration.

Broader Implications for Christian Worship

The debate over Eucharistic adoration touches on broader themes of Christian worship and theology. It raises questions about the nature of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, the appropriate forms of worship, and the interpretation of scriptural teachings. While the Roman Catholic Church maintains its stance on the practice, emphasizing the mystery and miracle of the Eucharist, other Christian traditions continue to challenge its validity.

The differences in belief about the Eucharist highlight the diversity within Christianity and the varying ways in which Christians understand and express their faith. For some, Eucharistic adoration is a profound act of devotion, deepening their relationship with Christ. For others, it is seen as a misguided practice that detracts from the true essence of Christian worship.

Conclusion

The practice of adoring the communion bread and wine remains a deeply significant yet divisive issue within Christianity. It embodies the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that have shaped Christian worship over centuries. While opinions on its appropriateness and theological soundness vary, the practice continues to be a powerful expression of faith for millions of believers worldwide. Whether seen as a profound act of devotion or a potential lapse into idolatry, Eucharistic adoration invites ongoing reflection and dialogue within the Christian community.