A Eucharistic Visitor is a lay person authorized to take the Consecrated Elements in a timely manner following a Celebration of Holy Eucharist to members of the congregation who, by reason of illness or infirmity, were unable to be present at the Celebration. A Eucharistic Visitor should normally act under the direction of a Deacon, if any, or otherwise, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
from The Constitution and Cannons of the Episcopal Church 4.7
Several of us have been called to be Eucharistic Visitors. We feel that anyone who is in physical distress and is desirous of receiving Communion should be able to do so. The consecrated (sacred) bread and wine are taken directly from the worship service to the home or hospital room of the person who cannot attend services. This allows those who are home-bound to participate in the common (community) worship of Our Lord.
The Rector prepares a special kit for us containing the Consecrated Host and Wine. The kit is prepared from the elements he consecrates at communion. As soon as services are over, we go directly to the individual's residence or hospital room.
Once we arrive, we offer cheerful news, inquire about the person's week, and talk about the service. If the person is well enough, we read the lessons and Prayers of the People and provide a summary of the sermon. If the person is not well enough for this, we leave the information for later use.
The service of Receiving Communion under Special Circumstances consists of a few simple prayers followed by offering the person and his or her family the opportunity to share communion.
1. Holy Communion is the principal event for Christians.
2.The person unable to attend services may, through this action, share in Christ's Community even though he or she could not be physically present.
Current Team Members:
Cinthia Barnes
George Harter
Rosina Harter
Dowell Mallory
Jack Nelson
Ed Robertson
Click below to return to:
Lay Worship Team
Our People
Frequently Asked Questions
Main Menu