Intinction

St Michael the Archangel, Findlay, OH - bread and wine crop 1

Intinction is a practice in Christian liturgy where the Eucharistic bread is dipped into the wine before it is received by the communicant. This method of receiving the Eucharist is used by various Christian denominations as a means to distribute the Holy Communion in a more hygienic manner or to ensure that the bread and wine are consumed simultaneously, as per the theological beliefs of some churches.

History

The practice of intinction can be traced back to the early Christian Church. It was mentioned by early church fathers and theologians as an acceptable way of distributing communion, especially in circumstances where distributing the elements separately could be logistically challenging or where the risk of spilling the Eucharistic wine was a concern.

Theological Significance

In Christian theology, the Eucharist is a sacrament that commemorates the Last Supper, the final meal that Jesus Christ shared with his disciples before his crucifixion. The bread symbolizes the body of Christ, and the wine represents his blood. Intinction, therefore, is seen by some denominations as a way to closely adhere to the practice of Jesus during the Last Supper, ensuring that communicants receive both elements together, as a single act of communion.

Practice

The method of intinction varies among different Christian denominations. In some churches, the minister or priest dips the bread into the wine and then places it directly into the communicant's mouth. In others, the communicant may hold the bread, and the minister dips it into the chalice of wine before handing it back to the communicant to eat. Some denominations allow the communicants to dip the bread into the wine themselves.

Controversy and Considerations

Intinction has been a subject of debate and controversy within certain Christian communities. Some argue that it deviates from traditional practices of consuming the bread and wine separately and may affect the sacramental integrity of the Eucharist. Others raise hygienic concerns, especially if the practice involves multiple people dipping bread into the same chalice.

Despite these concerns, many churches have adopted intinction as a standard practice, especially in light of health concerns such as the spread of infectious diseases. It is seen as a compromise that allows for the communal aspect of the Eucharist while addressing practical health considerations.

Conclusion

Intinction represents a unique blend of tradition, theology, and practicality within the Christian practice of Holy Communion. While it may not be universally accepted across all denominations, it serves as a testament to the diverse ways in which Christians seek to faithfully observe the sacraments in changing times.