Eucharistic Assistants support the worshipping life of our churches by helping to administer Holy Communion during services.
In the Diocese of York, the Archbishop has delegated authority for authorising Eucharistic Assistants to incumbents and priests-in-charge. This means that authorisations can be managed locally, without needing to apply to a bishop.
Who can be authorised?
Incumbents and priests-in-charge can authorise someone to serve as a Eucharistic Assistant, provided they:
- are a communicant member of the Church of England
- have completed Basic Safeguarding Training
- have the support of the Parochial Church Council (PCC)
There is no need to apply to the bishop or submit an authorisation to the diocese. Diocesan certificates are no longer issued.
Authorisations should be kept under review by the incumbent or priest-in-charge. During a vacancy, responsibility for authorisation passes to the Area Dean.
Safeguarding requirements
Anyone serving as a Eucharistic Assistant during services in a church building must have completed Basic Safeguarding Training.
This is available online through the Church of England’s safeguarding training portal.
If someone has already completed Basic Safeguarding Training for another church role, they do not need to repeat it, provided their training remains in date.
You do not need to submit evidence of training to the diocesan team. Responsibility for ensuring training is completed and kept up to date rests with the incumbent or priest-in-charge, the individual concerned, and the Parish Safeguarding Officer.
Taking Holy Communion to people at home or in care settings
Different requirements apply to those taking Holy Communion to people in their homes, hospitals, or care homes.
Existing local arrangements for training, safer recruitment, and supervision should continue to be followed, according to the nature and frequency of the ministry.
Those undertaking Home Communion ministry, whether as their only role or alongside their role as a Eucharistic Assistant, must complete three safeguarding training modules:
- Basic Safeguarding
- Foundation Safeguarding
- Raising Awareness of Domestic Abuse
These modules are available through the Church of England’s safeguarding training portal.
Further information
If you have questions about authorising Eucharistic Assistants, please contact the Revd Tom Mumford.
