The Episcopal Diocese of Central New York licenses lay people to serve as Eucharistic Ministers and Eucharistic Visitors. Training for this ministry is conducted by parish clergy.
The Ministry
A Eucharistic Minister is a lay person authorized to administer the consecrated elements at a Celebration of Holy Eucharist. A Eucharistic Minister acts 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.
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 of the Eucharist. A Eucharistic Visitor acts 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.
Staff Contact: Sarah Alamond
Training and Licensing
Individuals wishing to serve as Eucharistic Ministers and/or Eucharistic Visitors should do the following:
- Meet with your clergyperson to discuss the ministry of a Eucharistic Minister/Visitor and your desire to serve in this ministry. If you are in a parish without resident clergy, contact your District Dean, who will also consult with your parish Warden and your parish’s regular supply priest (if applicable).
- Ensure that you are currently a confirmed communicant in good standing in your parish.
- Complete appropriate training with your parish clergyperson (or consult your District Dean if you are in a parish without resident clergy). Training curriculum may be determined by clergy; a sample training program may be downloaded below.
- Ensure that your Safe Church certification is up-to-date. Download your transcript from Praesidium to view your course completion dates, or contact your parish for more information.
- After above requirements are complete, you will be ready to apply to the bishop’s office for a license. Please work with your parish clergy (or District Dean) to submit the Eucharistic Minister/Visitor: License Request .