From The Encyclopedia of Mormonism Author: Pixton, Paul B.
Communion refers to partaking of the Lord's Supper. The more
common term among members of The Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints is Sacrament (D&C 59:9). Eucharistia is the
Greek term that meant "thanksgiving" among early Christians.
Partaking of the Sacrament is the central act of worship and
covenant renewal and resembles the simple commemorative meal
described in the New Testament (cf. Matt. 26:26-28; Mark
14:22-24; Luke 22:19-20; Acts 2:42, 46). Postbiblical doctrines
of transubstantiation (real presence) and of a "mere sign" are
absent from the LDS teachings. All members of the Church,
including unbaptized children, are encouraged to partake of the
bread and water as emblems in remembrance of the body and blood
of Jesus Christ (see D&C 27). The communion sought is a
communion of spirit as envisioned in the Sacrament prayers
(Moro. 4-5; 3 Ne. 18; D&C 20:77, 79). [See also Sacrament.] PAUL
B. PIXTON