Sunday services are almost always services of Holy Eucharist, which include the administration of Communion. At St. John's, we gather at the Lord's table rather than an Episcopal table, and all baptized Christians are welcome and encouraged to receive Communion. If you wish to come to the altar rail but not receive Communion, place your arms across your chest to receive a blessing from the priest.
As the primary sacrament that makes one a Christian and grafts one into the Body of Christ, Baptism is the prerequisite for Communion. If you have never been baptized and would like to discuss this possibility, please visit with one of St. John’s clergy.
To receive communion at a morning service: Approach the altar rail. There, you may stand or kneel, as you place your right palm on top of your left palm. The priest will put a wafer in your hand. You may consume it immediately and then drink from the common cup, or alternatively you may dip your wafer into the cup and then consume it. If you drink from the common cup, lightly guide the cup to your mouth by placing your hand at the base of the chalice.
To receive communion at The Gathering evening service: Approach the priest while placing your right palm on top of your left palm. The priest will put a wafer in your hand. You may consume it immediately and then drink from the common cup, or alternatively you may dip your wafer into the cup and then consume it. If you drink from the common cup, lightly guide the cup to your mouth by placing your hand at the base of the chalice.
Episcopalians use real wine in Holy Eucharist. If you wish to receive bread but not wine, simply place your arms across your chest after receiving the bread, and the chalicist will know to pass by you with the cup.