Translation guide
Refers to the Christian sacrament of receiving the Eucharist. In Japanese, the term is usually expressed with established Christian vocabulary, often borrowed from Portuguese or English, or using native terms.
The general concept of Holy Communion as a Christian rite.
The standard theological term for Holy Communion, used in many Protestant and some Catholic contexts. Literally 'holy meal'.
Referring to the elements themselves, especially the bread (host) and wine.
聖餐 is the most general and widely understood term across denominations. 聖体拝領 is specifically Catholic and emphasizes the act of receiving. コミュニオン is a casual loanword often used in contemporary or non-denominational churches.
If you are unsure of the denomination, 聖餐 is a safe choice. In a Catholic context, 聖体拝領 or 聖体 may be more appropriate. For informal conversation among Christians, コミュニオン is common.
今日の礼拝では聖餐があります。
There will be Holy Communion in today's service.
Used primarily in Catholic contexts, emphasizing the receiving of the Body of Christ. More formal and specific to the act of receiving.
信者は聖体拝領に与ります。
The faithful partake in Holy Communion.
Loanword from English 'communion'. Common in casual or contemporary Christian settings, especially among younger generations or in non-denominational churches.
来週の日曜日はコミュニオンの礼拝です。
Next Sunday is a communion service.
Literally 'the Lord's Supper'. Used in some Protestant traditions, emphasizing the memorial aspect. Less common in everyday speech.
主の晩餐はイエスが定められたものです。
The Lord's Supper was instituted by Jesus.
Refers specifically to the consecrated host (the Body of Christ) in Catholic and Orthodox contexts. Can also be used more broadly for the sacrament.
司祭が聖体を高く掲げた。
The priest elevated the host.
Literally 'bread and wine'. Used when describing the elements in a non-technical way, or in Protestant settings.
聖餐ではパンとぶどう酒が用いられます。
Bread and wine are used in Holy Communion.