As defined by Canons: 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.
Eucharistic Visitor
Knowledge Base
- General familiarity with the Book of Common Prayer
- Basic knowledge of sacramental theology and a clear understanding of the Episcopal approach to the sacrament of Holy Eucharist
- An understanding of when and how to report pastoral needs
Competencies
- Demonstrates basic pastoral care skills such as respecting confidentiality and active listening
- Administer the consecrated elements in various settings
- Practical aspects of transporting the consecrated elements and the disposition of and/or return of any remaining to the church
- Ability to paraphrase sermons
- Communicate and inform parish clergy of issues that may be of concern
Formation
Eucharistic Visitor training occurs at the parish level under the direction of a member of the clergy exercising oversight of the congregation.
Duration of License & Renewal
A Eucharistic Visitor will be licensed for up to 1 year at a time. Before or immediately after 1 year has passed, the licensed lay Eucharistic Visitor should receive some refreshing of their training and assessment of their good standing. At this time, a member of the clergy with oversight and responsibility for this ministry can recommend that their license be renewed or that they pursue other ministries within the church and give room for others to practice this ministry.