Training of Eucharistic Ministers and Visitors

Introduction (top)

Eucharistic Ministers are licensed by the bishop according to the canons of the church and act under the Bishop's authority through the office of the Rector, Victor, or Priest-In-Charge of the local congregation.

A Liturgical Eucharistic Minister (LEM) may assist the celebrant distributing the Sacrament in either form. Training for Liturgical Eucharistic Ministers is provided locally by the Member of the Clergy in charge.

A Eucharistic Visitor (EV), formerly called a Pastoral Visiting Lay Eucharistic Minister (PVLEM), in addition to fulfilling the liturgical functions of the LEM, may take the Holy Communion to those members of the congregation who were not able to be present at the Celebration.

Licensing requirements (top)

To be licensed by the Bishop, the Eucharistic Visitor candidate must · Be a baptized communicant of a parish/congregation or mission of the Diocese of Washington.

~    Be least 21 years of age
~    Successfully complete the diocesan EV training
~    Visit only in teams of two and only immediately following a public celebration
       of the Eucharistic
~    Administer communion using the form prescribed by the Bishop
       (which is provided at the EV training)
~    Receive supervision at least monthly by a Member of the Clergy

It is strongly recommended that each EV attend the Prevention of Sexual Misconduct training offered periodically by the Diocese.

Training schedule (top)

The EV training is provided as a function of the Commission on Ministry. At this time future sessions have not been scheduled. For more information contact George McConnell at gmcconnell@edow.org

Training coordinator (top)

Registration information should be sent to George McConnell, Episcopal Diocese of Washington, Episcopal Church House, Mount Saint Alban, Washington, D.C. 20016, Attn: EV Training.

Questions? Call George McConnell at 202/537-6536
E-mail: gmcconnell@edow.org