While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, ‘Take; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly I tell you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.’ (Mark 14: 22-25)

Judas is still at the table as the bread and wine are distributed. Mark also tells us that all of them drank from it.

The gospels are clear that Jesus knew that Judas - and all the others - would betray him. Yet Jesus blessed the bread and wine and shared it with them.

Earlier this week seven leaders of the Anglican church determined not to share Holy Eucharist with the Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church.

Jesus shared even with those who would deny him and give him up to crucifixion. By that standard, who is to be excluded from this memorial meal?

We can choose to exclude ourselves. Jesus is ready to welcome all.

The Church of Nigeria offered an explanation for the action of the seven who did not share in the Eucharist.