How is Communion understood in Orthodox practice?

In Orthodox practice, Communion is understood as a profound mystery in which the bread and wine truly become the body and blood of Christ. This belief is rooted in the tradition of the early Church and emphasizes the sacramental nature of Communion. The Orthodox Church teaches that during the Divine Liturgy, through the process of consecration, the elements undergo a transformation that is not merely symbolic but actual. This belief is encapsulated in the theological concept of transubstantiation, which signifies that while the appearances of bread and wine remain, their essence is transformed into the reality of Christ's body and blood.

This understanding emphasizes the importance of Communion as a means of participating in the divine life and uniting the faithful with Christ and each other. It also reflects the communal aspect of worship, where the assembly partakes together in this sacred mystery, reinforcing their connection to each other within the larger body of the Church.

The other choices do not capture this essential Orthodox understanding. Communion is not seen simply as a symbolic act or just a ritual of remembrance; rather, it holds a deeper significance that transcends mere symbols. While it can have community aspects, the main focus in Orthodox theology is on the transformative and sacred nature of the elements during the liturgy.