The Sacrament: Coming Closer to Christ through This Sacred Ordinance

by S. Michael Wilcox, Brent L. Top, Toni Sorenson

Often our experiences during the sacrament service seem quite ordinary. However, partaking of the sacrament is one of the most important and sacred ordinances in which we can participate. The sacrament is a weekly invitation to once again come unto Christ through the sin-remitting, soul-transforming power that can come when we “eat and drink of the bread and the waters of life freely.” The moments we spend with Him each week in the spirit of repentance and re-commitment can bring consolation, encouragement, forgiveness, and hope.

In this inspiring book, respected LDS authors give their thoughts on how we can get more from the sacrament, and how by partaking of these sacred emblems we witness our willingness to take upon ourselves His name, promising to “always remember him and keep his commandments . . . that [we] may always have his spirit to be with [us]” (D&C 20:77– 79).

Originally published in hardcover as Of These Emblems.

Genres: Religion, Lds, Nonfiction

112 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2010

About the author

S. Michael Wilcox is an instructor at the institute of religion adjacent to the University of Utah. A frequent speaker at Brigham Young University Education Week, Michael also conducts tours of the Holy Land, Church history sites, Europe, China, and Central America. He received a bachelor’s degree in English literature from Brigham Young University, a master’s in media from the University of Arizona, and his Ph.D. from the University of Colorado in educational philosophy. He is the author of House of Glory and When Your Prayers Seem Unanswered.

Reviews

[Taunya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really great book if you are trying to make your Sabbath worship more meaningful. It gave me lots of ideas of things I can ponder during the Sacrament and to help me realize more fully the symbolism associated with it. It helped me to understand better about that most important 15 minutes of the week.

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Essays about the Sacrament and how we can personalize this sacred ordinance and make it more meaningful in our lives. I enjoyed most of them, underlining key passages.I especially liked the essay by Hank Smith and his insight on Isaiah 6.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's nothing earth-shatteringly new or mind blowingly deep about these short essays/thoughts about the Sacrament, but I appreciated them, and it gave me some things to think and ponder about.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed some of the perspectives on the sacrament in this book. My own appreciation for the Savior and ability to focus on His Atonement during the sacrament each week really grew.

[Gratefulscottie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nothing really earth shattering but a good read.
Some of the different authors covered the same thing but that was ok.

[Lauren · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful read during Holy Week. However, I would recommend just one essay a week and time to ponder and partake of the sacrament between. Each essay offers unique perspectives on this holy ordinance.

I particularly loved the comparison between Isaiah’s calling and the sacrament. I also loved the relationship between the bread and physical death and the water with spiritual death.

Wonderful teachings and stories.

[Sabra Ann Rasmussen · Rating 5 out of 5]

very good made me think about the sacrament in a way i have never thought about it before... will definitely read again

[Shellie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short amazing true stories.
Strong testimony.
Truth shared.

[Jared Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really awesome insights from a lot of different people that made the Sacrament a more powerful ordinance in my life.

[Adrienne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eight LDS scholars share their insights into the sacrament to help others get more meaning out of this ordinance. By discussing symbolism and tying in scriptures and stories from their own experience, they invite readers to take a deeper look at what the sacrament is really about and why sacrament meeting should be the most holy of LDS meetings.

This book was easy to understand and gave good points to ponder. It's helpful resource for those looking to elevate their weekly sacrament experience.

[Brandon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is essentially a collection of short, well-thought out sacrament talks from various individuals. As such, there is little cohesiveness between each of the parts, but still a lot of insight in each part. I was especially moved by the story of one of the authors who witnessed a stranger enter an LDS sacrament meeting and while partaking the sacrament, say the words, "Thank you, Jesus." This story, and some of the others in this book gave me a greater appreciation for the sacred ordinance of the sacrament.

[Tenille · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was fantastic! It was written by some great authors/speakers. It gave me some great insights of the sacrament. I would read one part on Saturday night and have some great new things to remember during the sacrament on sunday. Taking the sacrament will never be the same! I have learned some very wonderful things!!

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most inspiring, informative, though-provoking books I have read. Anyone that takes communion or the sacrament of the Savior needs to read this book. From preparing yourself for partaking, to recognizing the importance of the bread and water, to making the atonement real in your life this book will take you there. The door of understanding is ready to be opened for you.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read a physical copy of this book and I also listened to it on CD. It was amazing what a different experience I had each time. But, oh, it was so good both times!
My favorite were the chapters with stories and personal experiences. I'd definitely recommend this book!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a short compilation of articles about the Sacrament. Some were more meaningful to me than others. I look at the Sacrament in a slightly different way now having read the book.

[Lucinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely gives you more insight into the sacrament.

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great book on the Sacrament. This book has made me think more about the sacredness of the Sacrament and focusing more on the Savior and what he did for me.

[Maggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I learned some really wonderful principles and deeper meaning of the Sacrament.

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[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book!

[Bracken · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great insights into the sacrament from several different perspectives. Enlightening and edifying.