A Clear Look At Our Open Table
If you are looking for a church in Baton Rouge and wondering if you can take communion as a visitor, we want you to know that First Christian Church Baton Rouge practices open communion. We celebrate communion every Sunday, and you do not need to be a member to receive it. To us, the Lord’s Table is a place of welcome, not a barrier for our guests.
TLDR
- We practice open communion every Sunday.
- You do not need to be a church member to participate.
- We believe the Lord’s Table is open because God has welcomed us.
- In our Disciples of Christ tradition, communion is the heart of our worship.
- We provide clear guidance so you can worship without uncertainty.
- Join us for Sunday worship at 10:00 a.m. in person or online.
- Your next step: Plan Your Visit or Watch Live.
For many people in Baton Rouge, communion is one of the biggest questions they have before visiting a new church. You might be wondering: Am I allowed to participate? Will I be singled out? Do I need to join the church first? These are fair questions, and we believe a church should answer them clearly.
A welcoming Baton Rouge church with an open table and clear steps for your first visit.
What Open Communion Means To Us
Open communion means that the Lord’s Table is not restricted to formal members of our congregation. It is an invitation shaped by Christ’s welcome, not by a membership checkpoint at the door.
As part of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), we celebrate communion weekly. Our tradition describes it simply: the Lord’s Supper is open to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Whether you come from a different denominational background or no church background at all, you are welcome here.
How We Practice It At FCC Baton Rouge
This isn’t just a theory for us; it is our weekly reality. We repeat this welcome in our worship materials so you can feel confident that our practice matches our words.
In our bulletins, we state: “The Disciples of Christ welcome all to the Lord’s Table as God has welcomed us. You do not need to be a member to receive communion.” We also include practical instructions in the service so you always know what to do next.
| Your Question | Our Practice |
|---|---|
| Is communion part of worship? | Yes. It is a central part of our service every single week. |
| Do I have to be a member? | No. Visitors are always welcome to receive communion. |
| Is this a regular thing? | Yes. This is a core part of our identity and our weekly bulletins. |
| Why do you do this? | It fits the Disciples of Christ tradition of unity and radical welcome. |
Why This Matters For Our Guests
We know that visitors often carry uncertainty as they walk into a new sanctuary. Some are returning to church after years away; others are bringing children and trying to “read the room” quickly. Many carry grief, doubt, or caution because church cultures haven’t always been gentle.
By offering open communion, we remove a major barrier. It tells you that we understand spiritual hunger doesn’t always wait for a “settled” membership status. It reflects our commitment to listening to people where they are and growing together in community.
Want to visit without the guesswork?
Plan Your Visit or watch online first to get a feel for our worship style before you arrive.
What To Expect During The Service
We believe people feel more at home when they know the “flow” in advance. That isn’t weak faith; it’s just being a guest in a new place. Here is how we handle communion:
- Arrive: Join us for Sunday worship at 10:00 a.m.
- Collect: Pick up a prepackaged communion kit from the tables in the narthex (the entrance hall) as you walk in.
- Participate: Hold onto the kit until the congregation partakes together during the service.
- Ask: If you have any questions, our greeters and leaders are happy to help.
The Heart Of Our Identity
At First Christian Church Baton Rouge, communion is not a side note. It is the center of who we are. We are committed to the oneness of Christians and connecting with our wider community. Open communion isn’t just “branding” for us; it is our theology in action. It allows us to hold two important values together: deep reverence for Christ and a wide-open welcome for you.
At First Christian Church Baton Rouge, communion is not a side note. It is the center of who we are. We are committed to the oneness of Christians and connecting with our wider community. Open communion is not just a statement about worship. It also connects to how we serve Baton Rouge beyond Sunday through outreach, giving, connection, and practical ministry. It allows us to hold together two important values: deep reverence for Christ and a wide-open welcome for you.
Why This Matters In Baton Rouge
People in our city are looking for a church home for many different reasons. Some are moving across town, while others are trying church again after a disappointment. We want our website to be a real “front door” for you. By being clear about our table, we hope to make your transition into our community as smooth and peaceful as possible.
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you visit.
Plan Your Visit, Watch Live, or email our office with any questions. We can’t wait to meet you.
Common Questions About Our Table
We know that stepping into a new sanctuary can feel like walking into a conversation that has already been going on for years. We want to catch you up so you can participate fully from day one. Here is exactly what you can expect when you join us.
Do I have to be a member of First Christian Church to take communion?
No. You do not need to be a member of our church or any church to receive communion here. We welcome you as God has welcomed us.
Do you serve communion every week?
Yes. As part of the Disciples of Christ tradition, communion is a central part of our 10:00 a.m. worship every Sunday.
Can I watch a service online before I visit in person?
Absolutely. We livestream our services so you can experience our worship from the comfort of your home before deciding to join us in person.
Where are you located?
We are located at 8484 Old Hammond Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA 70809. If you need directions or have questions, you can call us at (225) 926-4175.