Eucharistic Visitor

Eucharistic Visitor

Extending the Table

According to our Diocesan guidelines, the 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, are unable to be present at the Celebration.”

Taking the Eucharist to our homebound friends and family is an extension of our shared Sunday celebration. We are bringing the shared gifts of our table to those unable to be with us on a given Sunday. It is a core part of our pastoral care for one another.

Being a Eucharistic Visitor

Requirements

  • Must be a confirmed communicant in good standing at St. Philip the Deacon Episcopal Church and faithful in Sunday attendance.
  • Meet with the Rector to discuss the ministry of a Eucharistic Minister/Visitor and your desire to serve in this ministry. 
  • Complete appropriate training as determined by clergy.
  • Complete Safe Church Training, specifically “Safeguarding God’s People: Preventing Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Harassment”. This must be renewed every three years.
  • Complete a background check. Contact the office to initiate this process.
  • Be licensed by the Diocese (the clergy will send letters when training is complete). 
  • Except to immediate family and friends, Eucharistic visitors must go out in teams of at least two.

Responsibilities

  • Bring the Eucharist bread, and sometimes the wine, to friends and family within the same week (when possible, on the same day) as our shared Eucharistic celebration.
  • Inform the clergy of the names of the people to whom you are bringing the Eucharist.
  • Receive the bread (and wine) at the conclusion of the Eucharist, and receive the prayers of the community as we send you forth to care for our church family.
  • Where possible, pray and read scripture with the recipient. You may use the following booklet (printed versions are available just outside the parish office).

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