About Holy Eucharist

Everyone Is Welcome

At the heart of every Sunday worship service is Holy Communion, also called the Holy Eucharist or the Lord’s Supper.

This is the meal Jesus shared with his disciples on the night before he died. When we gather around the table, we remember his life, death, and resurrection, give thanks for God’s love, and receive Christ’s presence among us.

We believe that Christ meets us in the sharing of bread and wine and nourishes us with grace, hope, forgiveness, and love.

At St. Paul’s, everyone is welcome at Christ’s table.

What Happens During Holy Communion?

After hearing Scripture, praying together, and listening to the sermon, we prepare the table.

Bread and wine are brought forward, prayers of thanksgiving are offered, and the priest blesses the bread and wine as the congregation joins in prayer. Then everyone who wishes is invited to come forward to receive Communion.

Some people receive only the bread. Others receive both the bread and the wine or grape juice. Either way, you receive the fullness of the sacrament.

How Do I Receive Communion?

If you’ve never received Communion before, don’t worry. Simply follow the people in front of you.

• An usher will invite your row to come forward.
• Hold out one hand to receive the bread only.
• Hold out two hands if you would like the bread intincted in the wine, which the priest will do for you.
• You may also sip from the chalice. Simply take the bread from the priest and move to the right where the chalice bearer will offer you the cup. You may take a small sip from the chalice and then hand it back. The rim is wiped and turned after each person receives.
• We also provide a separate chalice containing grape juice.
• If you need a gluten-free wafer, simply say, “Gluten free,” and the priest will gladly provide one.
• If walking to the altar is difficult, let an usher know and we will bring Communion to you.
• If you prefer not to receive Communion, you are welcome to come forward with your arms crossed over your chest to receive a blessing instead.
• If you would rather remain in your pew, please feel completely comfortable doing so.
• We invite you engage in silent prayer to respect those around you before and after receiving.

Questions?

If you have questions about Holy Communion, the Episcopal Church, or anything you experience during worship, we’d love to talk with you.

Please introduce yourself after the service or contact the church office during the week: office@StPaulsSparks or 775-358-4474. Our office hours are: Monday – Thursday, 9:00am – 2:00pm. We’d be honored to help you learn more.