Each week at the 10:15 am service, our communion does not end as we say the post-communion prayer. It continues as lay eucharistic visitors take the gifts from the altar out into the city to set tables of grace and welcome in hospital rooms or rehab facilities or the homes of parishioners who are no longer mobile enough to join us at 1941 Webberville. This ministry is a tremendous gift to those who bear the weight of isolation that struggles with health can bring. Through it we live out our identity: we who are many are one body, for we all share one bread, one cup.
In order for us to meet the needs of our community, we are seeking to train at least four more EVs in 2019. Each EV goes out once-a-month, with another EV, directly after the 10:15 am service to participate in a brief eucharistic service with someone in need of community, assigned according to the pastoral care needs of the community. Our next training for EVs will take place on Saturday, October 5, 11 am – 1 pm, and will include lunch. Safeguarding God’s People and a conversation with the rector are also requirements for becoming an EV.
Want to know more about what this ministry means and looks like? Here is a reflection from Liz Taylor White:
When we are called to visit someone in our fold, it is often at a time of transition in their lives. Whether it be a temporary or chronic health issue, becoming less mobile from the natural process of aging or some other reason, we are being invited into their home or institution at what can be a sensitive time for them and their families. It has been a huge gift for me to bring the precious gift of the Holy Eucharist to people in that intimate setting and watch the comfort and relief it can bring someone at a difficult time in their life. The vulnerability and closeness that occurs between us as we share the holy mystery of one bread and one cup has radically transformed my relationship to Christ as I witness His love and healing in people’s lives.
Another benefit is that we receive double blessings; two services with two communions! I love our EV service. It is a condensed version of the church service from which we are sent forth. I take notes during our enlivening sermons so I can give a brief synopsis. As a result, my listening skills have sharpened as well as my understanding of scripture. Surprisingly, no matter what state a person is in they can almost always recite The Lord’s Prayer! It is inspiring to see people’s eyes light up when we bring flowers and the news of St. James’ connecting them to goings-on of our church. All this has brought me into the Body of Christ in a surprisingly new and wondrous way. It is an awesome privilege and a joy to serve on the team and be the bearer of these holy gifts to our fellow parishioners.
Being an EV is an incredible opportunity to serve God and our community, to get to know our fellows at a deeper level, make wonderful new friends and become a more integral part of the widely diverse St. James’ community.
