The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist
The Great Thanksgiving
“It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.“ - The Book of Common Prayer
“Jesus took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying, ‘This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.‘ And likewise, the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup which is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood.’” - Luke 19-20
The elements of the liturgy are both parts of material reality and functions of divine grace. The Sacrament of Holy Eucharist is celebrated by the priest or bishop, using wheat bread and fermented grape wine. These are offered up to God, along with our selves, our souls and bodies, and the Holy Spirit is invited to descend into the elements of bread and wine, sanctifying them to become for us the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Episcopalians believe that the bread and wine are not mere signs; Christ's body and blood become really present and are really given that, receiving them, believers may be united in Communion with Christ the Lord. The reality which is immaterial and can only be known by the soul is interwoven into the material world, which can be known by the senses, and God brings humanity into union with Himself.
All baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion at Epiphany. All are expected to prepare carefully before receiving Communion. They are expected to earnestly repent of their sins, confess and receive absolution, be in love and charity with their neighbors, and strive to lead a new life following the commandments of God.
If, in preparation, you need help and counsel, you may contact our priest and confess your sins, so that you may receive the benefit of absolution, and spiritual counsel and advice; to the removal of scruple and doubt, the assurance of pardon, and the strengthening of your faith. The sacrament of Reconciliation of a Penitent (sometimes called Confession) is available by appointment.
Every time Christians receive Holy Communion, they renew and re-enact their baptisms. If you are not baptized, we invite you to consider receiving the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. Please talk to our priest about preparing for baptism at Epiphany.