Lay Eucharistic Ministers

After appropriate training, lay people may become Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs).  LEMs assist the clergy in the distribution of Holy Communion during our services of worship.  This ministry requires a license from the Bishop and training.  It is among the most intimate and spiritual ministries of the church.

LEMs 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, Vicar, or Priest-In-Charge of the local congregation.

The duties of the LEM are to administer the elements at celebrations of Holy Eucharist. To do this, LEMs are responsible for keeping the Lay Eucharistic Ministry Coordinator informed of their availability for assignment to particular services. Once assigned, LEMs are responsible for making sure they honor their commitments to serve on the dates assigned or find suitable substitutes to take their places when they are unable to serve due to illness or other obligations. They must be vested and ready to serve 15 minutes prior to the service.

LEMs must be adult, confirmed members in good standing, must be recommended by the Rector, live an exemplary Christian life without scandal, and be regular in worship.  They should have a devotion to and basic understanding of the Eucharist.