1) What this ministry is...
To share communion with those unable to attend church, Eucharistic Visitors (EVs) are sent by the congregation with bread and wine consecrated at the service. EVs provide a pleasant visit for the person. The Eucharistic Visitor might be one of the few outside people a homebound person sees. A mutual relationship develops. This service does not replace periodic clergy visits, but augments them.
2) Are meetings held? How much time is involved?
EVs will need to attend church and receive a kit with the consecrated bread and wine. They visit the homebound person at a previously agreed time, usually on the same day. EVs use a printed service with words from The Book of Common Prayer that include prayers, Scripture, and readings. The homebound person participates as much as possible, saying the confession, post-communion prayer, and Lord's Prayer. Sometimes the service is shortened, depending on the health of the homebound individual. Once the service is completed, EVs may stay and visit or help with any needed personal services.
EVs rotate Sundays. They go where needed. The visit takes one to two hours on a Sunday afternoon. An EV also prepares and cleans the kit and makes an entry in the Eucharistic record book.
EVs meet about once every three months at 9:30 on Sunday morning. They set the schedule for the next three months and discuss mutual concerns. This meeting usually takes less than 30 minutes.
3) Are any special talents or qualifications needed?
EVs should have a conviction of the need for this ministry and be nonjudgmental, patient, supportive, and be comfortable with the frailties of life. EVs should be able to make their visits pleasant and enjoyable (and possibly helpful) to those they are visiting.>
4) How does someone get involved?
Speak to Our Rector Father Jerry Thompson or Jeanne Vannorsdall.
5) Who is the contact person (or persons)?
Father Jerry Thompson 474-1979, Jeanne Vannorsdall (466-9153), or an EV (Susan Ugai, 423-5953, or Bob Kuzelka, 475-0221).