The Lord’s Supper and a Theological Praxis for Unity? A Reformed Perspective
It is common knowledge that the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) and the Uniting Reformed Church in Southern Africa (URCSA) are still functioning as two different churches. As two churches which believe and practise almost the same doctrines, creeds, confessions, etc., I deem it necessary to reflect on what praxis is called for in the movement towards becoming a united church. The study will have different focus points, which will allow for a deeper and comprehensive understanding of the matter at hand. Firstly, I elaborate specifically on the voice of Klippies Kritzinger as it pertains to the Lord’s Supper. In his essay on the eucharist in South Africa he uses what he refers to as a “praxis matrix” (Kritzinger, 2024). This matrix is specifically a praxis, which means it is a method which allows for action but incorporates reflection in order to improve the current practice. This matrix is of great significance in the context of this study since it allows wider reflection on the Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry (BEM) document (World Council of Churches, 1982), as Kritzinger does in his essay. I use his application of the matrix on the BEM as a guide for my own use of the matrix when I apply it to the conversation of unity between the DRC and URCSA. Such a reflection allows for a better structure towards a conclusion concerning the research question. Such a guideline is needed, especially with a topic like this one, to form a basis for evaluation of and elaboration on the Lord’s Supper (also referred to in this study as the eucharist or Holy Communion), and the role it might play in searching for church unity. Secondly, another voice will be central in this study, namely that of Dirkie Smit. Smit’s voice is important since he speaks of the theological importance of the Lord’s Supper in the church. In this instance, Smit makes God’s activity and presence in the eucharist evident, also referring to John Calvin. Thirdly, the study will make use of the voice of Michael Welker, specifically about what happens in the Lord’s Supper, based on his book What happens in Holy Communion. Smit’s voice sets the theological basis for certain understandings when one is participating at the table of Christ. Welker’s voice complements Smit’s thoughts by making these views active through certain practices, based on his book, which could enhance the conversation on unity between the churches. Smit provides theological understanding and interpretation on the Lord’s Supper in terms of how God is part of and at work in the sacrament. Smit also makes use of Calvinistic theories and interpretations to enrich his thought. Welker, on the other hand, focuses on what is taking place in Holy Communion. I deem Welker’s ideas on koinonia, reconciliation, and relationship particularly appropriate for the argument of this inquiry. These three voices will speak to each other in this study and will complement one another with a view to constructing a theological praxis towards unity. Fourthly, the study will emphasise the question: How can these three theologians contribute to a theological understanding and praxis in the conversation between the DRC and URCSA, which is a fragile conversation in progress? This emphasis will focus on the possibility of a renewed manner of engagement can materialise, one that is conscious of the past and open to the future. The study will therefore address questions pertaining to the possibility for unity through effective conversation. With this focus, the study moves towards a construction of new methods to be considered for re-opening and engaging in a conversation that was and is still taking place. The pivotal difference in this regard is whether there is room for new ways of engaging difference.
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