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Communion Training – Part 3

Rehearsal of the Liturgyof the

Lord’s Supper

This unit is only for Elder(s) selected by their Session for training.

Congratulations on your being selected by your Session to be trained to serve CommunionPlease feel free to contact your Presbytery representative if you have questions on this final step in your training and certification.

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Take a Breath. Let It Out. Smile!

Remember you are among friends, brothers and sisters in ChristYou are a servant, not GodYou are shepherding people in their approach to God

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Eye contact is important Practice the phrasing of the liturgy Read/Speak with meaning Don’t wing it! Eye signals and nods of head to elders serving

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Body language speaks volumesTry not to let your presence and performance come between the table and the peoplePosture Stand straight – don’t slump Speak up and out—enunciate Neither hurriedly, nor ploddingly No hands in pockets

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Attire Dress appropriately to maintain the

dignity of the service For more traditional congregations this

might mean suit and tie or dress For a more casual congregation a nice

dress shirt or pant suit or pants and top might be appropriate

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Mechanics Know what you’re going to do and what comes next Make sure your script is clear and easy to follow

(large print, readable font, good spacing) Number your pages Place your script in a simple notebook of some sort

If you make a mistake (and you will!), remember, grace abounds!

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Prepare a Communion Service

Your best help is the Book of Common Worship.

• Find a copy• Select a service of your choice (non special

times are best to start)• You will find numerous readings, scripture,

liturgy, prayers, etc.

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Write out your servicePractice it’s deliveryRewrite if needed – first time around you might do several rewrites before you feel confident.Practice delivery in your church sanctuary with trays, cup and other items present

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Practice with sound system on.Get use to hearing yourself in the sanctuaryGet use to handling a pitcher and challis Practice breaking of bread while speaking about it

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When you feel prepared, schedule your meeting with the Presbytery representative to complete your training and receive your certification.

God will help you in your preparations Good Luck!