Consubstantiation is a term Reformed churches use for the real presence of Christ in the Lord's Supper: Christ is fully present in the bread and wine, but their substance does not become his body and blood. Lutherans affirm Christ's real presence but reject the word, usually describing it instead as the sacramental union.
What does consubstantiation mean?
The word joins "con" ("with" or "together") and "substance," describing Christ's body and blood as present together with the substance of the bread and wine. The term is associated with John Calvin and later Reformed writers, and it is also used by some Anglicans and other Protestant writers. Reformed churches teach that the risen Christ is truly present in the sacrament of the Lord's Supper, a teaching they call the real presence.
Reformed churches also teach that the Supper is to be received in faith and self-examination, citing Paul's warning in 1 Corinthians 11 that unworthy receiving brings judgment.
How is consubstantiation different from transubstantiation?
Catholic churches teach transubstantiation: at the consecration, the whole substance of the bread and wine becomes the body and blood of Christ, while the appearances of bread and wine remain. Reformed churches agree with Catholics that Christ is really present, but not that the substance of the elements changes. Lutherans reject the Roman Catholic account of a change of substance as well.
Why do Lutherans reject the term?
Lutherans object to a word that can suggest Christ's substance is blended into the bread and wine, the way one liquid mixes with another. The confessional writings gathered in the Book of Concord instead speak of the sacramental union. In that union, the sacramental sign, the bread, and the thing signified, Christ's body, are united in the sacrament. Lutherans teach that the body and blood of Christ are truly, really, and substantially present with, in, and under the bread and wine. For a wider overview, see Lutheran beliefs explained.
How do other churches describe the Eucharist?
Eastern Orthodox churches call the sacrament the Holy Mysteries and speak of a mysterious change in which the bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ while keeping their appearances. Eastern Catholic churches use similar language. Many Baptists and other churches describe the Lord's Supper as a memorial, in which the bread and wine recall Christ's death without Christ being bodily present in them.
What to expect if you attend
In a Lutheran church, expect a sermon that may explain Christ's presence in the sacrament, a reading of the Words of Institution, and the distribution of bread and wine, sometimes in one kind only. Lutheran congregations differ on communion practice: some welcome members of churches in fellowship, while others ask guests to speak with the pastor first. If you plan to attend, find Lutheran churches near you and ask about communion practice before the service.