Eucharistic Minister

Eucharistic Ministers embody the ministry of all the baptized as they offer the hospitality of God's Table, where the people of God share the benefits of the Paschal sacrifice and renew the new covenant made with us once and for all. In giving food and drink, they symbolize the bond of charity in which Christ calls us as his friends to the banquet of heaven. A Eucharistic Minister is authorized to administer the Consecrated Elements at a celebration of the Holy Eucharist.

Must be a confirmed communicant in good standing and licensed by the Bishop. Training Is required and you must be recommended for licensing by a member of the clergy.

During the Service

• Enter the sanctuary with the vicar/deacon and/or priest as a part of the procession.
• Lead the congregation in the reading of the Psalm responsively by the whole verse.
  
• Read the Epistle standing at the lectern pausing at the of the reading with the statement "The Word of the Lord".
  
• Wait for the congregational response of "Thanks be to God" before moving away from the lectern.
• Lead the congregation in the Prayers of the People ending with the reading of those names on the parish prayer list.
• Come forward after the invitation (The gifts of God for the People of God ... )
• At the time of communion, receive the chalice and purificator and administer to the individuals in the congregation as they kneel or stand in front of the ministers. Guide the chalice to the mouth of the communicant, which is easiest if they take hold of the base or the cup itself. Rotate the chalice turn between each communicant, while wiping the rim. While it is best never to let go of the chalice in most cases, allow the communicant to control the flow of wine. Provide for intinction according to the custom of the parish. If the communicant indicates a wish to not receive wine, administer the words only. If wine starts to run low, or there are any problems, the vicar, deacon and/or priest is available to help.
  
• When administering, recite one of the phrases found in the Book of Common Prayer.
  
• (pages 365 -Rite II, and 338- Rite I). For continuity, it is best if the Eucharistic.
  
• Minister's words of administration are from the same rite and the same format as that used by the preside.
  
• Following communion, return to the credence table before consuming any leftover wine; return to your seat.